Informa Market’s virtual event series, Fi Global Connect, will continue through 2021. 

The ‘Regions in the Spotlight’ event will take place in April, followed by two more themed events in June and September, focused on health ingredients and plant-based ingredients. The events are intended to offer exhibitors and participants “a chance to showcase products, make contacts, learn about trends and innovations, and broaden their market knowledge”. 

From 12-23 April, companies will present ingredients, technologies and services to an international audience. The agenda, comprising live and on-demand sessions, promises insights into regional markets, along with their specific trends and regulatory particularities, Informa says. 

FMCG Gurus will be joining as the Key Content Partner, providing its market insights on various regions. Other speakers from organisations such as Rabobank, EAS Strategies and The Good Food Institute India will share information on the different markets and their regulatory landscapes. 

The event will see collaboration between the regional teams of Fi Europe, Fi North America, Fi South America, Fi Africa, Fi India, Hi Korea, Hi Japan, Hi & Fi Asia-China, Fi Asia and Fi Vietnam trade shows. 

Exhibitors and attendees can use chat and video meetings to take advantage of the event’s networking opportunities, with up to 10,000 attendees expected to attend. 

Sinem Zeybek, Fi Global Brand Manager, said: "The food industry is thoroughly globalised, not only in supply chains and raw material sourcing, but also when it comes to the exchange of ideas when meeting face-to-face. But sadly, the year 2020 put a stop to networking in person. Thats why Im even more pleased that we have launched Fi Global Connect, a series of events wher such vital and international exchanges can succeed virtually. Our experienced teams from all over the world will ensure that exhibitors and participants alike can benefit from this opportunity in the best possible way." 

From 14 to 18 June, the company will host an online event focusing on the market for ingredients with added health benefits. The event will highlight functional foods and dietary supplements, including ingredients for immune and intestinal health, and active and performance nutrition. There will also be discussions around making products healthier, from ‘free from’ and salt and sugar reduction, to transparency and sustainability. 

An event for plant-based ingredients will take place on the 13 to 17 September, and will offer manufacturers of plant-based ingredients a platform and programme of lectures and panels. Exhibitors can showcase their ingredients, and solutions to optimise the taste, texture and nutritional value of plant-based foods will also be presented.