Gama spoke to Jean-Gabriel Mollard, Director of SIAL Paris, ahead of the latest edition of SIAL.
Read this Tradeshow Look Ahead in the next issue of Gama News.
What are your primary goals and expectations for SIAL 2026 as it returns to Paris?
Our priority for SIAL Paris 2026 is clear: to make this edition a powerful accelerator for business and transformation across the food industry. As technologies, consumer expectations and economic challenges evolve rapidly, we want professionals to better understand the market, discover innovation and create concrete opportunities. With more than 8,000 exhibitors expected, our ambition is to connect the global food ecosystem and help shape the future of the industry.
Following the 60th anniversary celebrations in 2024, how is the show evolving to remain the ‘global summit’ for food industry professionals?
SIAL Paris is evolving by strengthening what has made it a global reference for over 60 years: business, innovation and inspiration. In 2026, we are enhancing the experience with AI-powered matchmaking, new sector-focused areas and more immersive innovation formats. SIAL Innovation celebrates its 30th anniversary, while SIAL Summits and Talks will address major transformations, from AI and traceability to consumer expectations. Our ambition is to turn global insights and connections into concrete opportunities for the industry.
Gama with Nicolas Trentesaux, SIAL Network Managing Director, at the 60th anniversary edition of SIAL in 2024.
The SIAL Innovation Awards are a hallmark of the event. What key trends do you expect to see dominating the entries this year?
The entries confirm a shift towards innovation that delivers tangible value. We are seeing more experiential pleasure, highly targeted functional nutrition, convenience combined with additional benefits, and solutions focused on environmental impact and carbon footprint. Personalisation is also becoming increasingly important. What stands out is how companies are combining enjoyment, health, practicality and responsibility rather than addressing these expectations separately.
How is SIAL 2026 further integrating the Start-up Village and food-tech innovations into the broader visitor experience?
In 2026, we are further integrating start-ups into the SIAL Paris experience as a key source of innovation for the entire industry. More than 650 start-ups are expected, including 150 exhibitors in the dedicated Start-up Village. Through pitches and direct connections with buyers, investors and partners, we want to give emerging solutions greater visibility and turn FoodTech innovation into concrete business opportunities across the food value chain.
With thousands of exhibitors from around the world, what is your top advice for buyers looking to efficiently navigate the halls and find the ‘next big thing’?
My top advice is to prepare before arriving. With thousands of exhibitors, buyers should define clear sourcing priorities, identify target companies and use our AI-powered matchmaking tools to schedule relevant meetings. Once onsite, sector-based halls, guided routes and dedicated spaces such as SIAL Innovation and the Start-up Village make it easier to spot emerging concepts. The goal is not to see everything, but to focus on the innovations and connections that can create real value for your business.
About SIAL
SIAL Paris is the must-attend biennial event for the food industry!
This international food show is the hub of food innovation, bringing together producers, distributors, restaurateurs, and importers-exporters.
Come and meet our exhibitors and discover the latest trends in the aisles.
*Gama is proud to be a media partner of SIAL 2026 and we look forward to our ongoing collaboration.*
