Despite growing ingredient prices sweets manufacturers were optimistic at ISM

ISM, the world’s biggest confectionery trade fair was held in Cologne on 29 January-1 February 2012. Márta Kakuk, the event’s representative in Hungary summarised the fair as follows: – Chocolate was in the limelight, with lots of new flavours and packaging trends. Smart innovations indicate that the praline segment is in an upward trend. Snack manufacturers also came with promising innovations. ISM press officer Christine Hackmann told that the prices of several ingredients and packaging materials rose dramatically and added that manufacturers were unable to fully compensate for this growth by increasing their products’ prices. In Europe there was even a sugar shortage: this was the result of the rigid quota system and stakeholders now hope that the European Commission will abolish this system in 2015. There were fewer exhibitors but much more visitors at ISM this year. From 65 countries 1,412 companies – 5 of them were Hungarian, including Detki Biscuit, Malk Brands Kft. and Bonbonetti – presented their products and services to 35,000 visitors. Journalists voted for the top innovations and the main prize of the New Product Showcase went to the chocolate products (made with stevia) of Belgian firm Cavalier. In general we can say that stevia seems to conquer the confectionery world. German company ültje finished second with its nut snacks in curry sausage and hamburger flavours. The third prize winner was PEZ from Austria for its new fruit gum bonbons in a brand new dispenser. Suppliers’ ProSweet trade fair was held at the same time as ISM: from 33 countries 334 exhibitors introduced themselves to 17,000 visitors. From Hungary only plastic processing company Pro-Form came, who successfully expanded their network of international partners.