SIGEP World 2026 Sets the Stage for Gelato Glory, Global Palates, and Foodservice Innovation in Rimini

Source: Italian Exhibition Group

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

The countdown to SIGEP World 2026 – The World Expo for Foodservice Excellence is officially underway, and this year’s edition promises more than just spectacle—it brings global momentum. Held from January 16–20, 2026, at the Rimini Expo Centre in Italy, the celebrated event returns with a sharpened international focus, a fresh slate of competitions, and an even deeper commitment to showcasing the future of artisanal foodservice.

Presented by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), SIGEP World has long served as a global reference point for leaders in gelato, pastry, chocolate, coffee, pizza, and bakery. In 2026, it’s not only about trend-spotting—it’s about setting the tone for what’s next.

Among the event’s most anticipated highlights is the return of the Gelato World Cup, the only international competition exclusively focused on the craft of gelato. Teams of elite gelato masters from around the world will once again compete for top honors, showcasing precision, artistry, and innovation. It’s a headline event that continues to elevate gelato from dessert to high art.

Complementing this global showcase is the Juniores Pastry World Cup, a prestigious competition that puts young pastry prodigies on the international stage. Expect technique, creativity, and technical rigor, as the next generation of talent brings a modern lens to the classic craft.

Pizza (R)evolution returns with renewed purpose, redefining the boundaries of one of the world’s most beloved dishes. More than just flour and fire, this strategic platform dives deep into the synergies between innovative ingredients, emerging technologies, and changing consumer habits. With a focus on expanding formats and creative evolution, this isn’t your standard pie—it's a glimpse into the next era of pizza.

For those looking to understand what’s brewing in global coffee culture, the Innovation Bar will be the place to sip, study, and explore. This immersive activation will trace the evolving identity of the modern coffee shop, examining how service, design, and product selection are shifting to meet a more conscious, experiential consumer base.

Underscoring SIGEP World’s expanding international footprint, India has been named the official Guest Country for the 2026 edition. This designation signals a strategic focus on the growing influence of Indian foodservice and hospitality industries. Expect cultural programming, curated culinary showcases, and business development opportunities aimed at building global partnerships.

SIGEP World’s push for broader global engagement will begin well before January. On November 6, 2025, the event will host a high-level roadshow at the Italian Embassy in Madrid, targeting Spain’s foodservice sector. This is one of several activations intended to build momentum and visibility across key markets. Notably, new direct flight routes to Rimini from Munich and Spain have been added to streamline international attendance.

More than a showcase, SIGEP World aims to shape the future of foodservice through strategic knowledge sharing. Attendees can expect access to SIGEP Vision, a dedicated think-tank for future trends, as well as the Lorenzo Cagnoni Innovation Award, honoring standout contributions in technology and sustainability. An international startup zone and expert-led talks will offer additional insight into emerging business models and solutions.

And ahead of the event, the new “Gelato Meets Chains” initiative will connect global buyers with gelato makers, offering digital sessions and a practical guide—developed by UIF and ACOMAG—outlining how and why to incorporate gelato into larger dining formats.