Trade fair participated in the Fruit and Vegetable Production and Distribution in Southern Spain 2025 conference
Fruit Logistica’s communications director for Spain and Latin America, Silvia de Juanes, discussed the role of innovation as a driver for competitiveness when she took part in a round table at this week’s Fruit and Vegetable Production and Distribution in Southern Spain 2025 conference, held at the IFAPA Los Palacios Centre in Seville.
The event, which brought together nearly a hundred industry professionals, served to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the Andalusian fruit and vegetable industry, a European benchmark in production, export, and innovation.
The other participants in the roundtable discussion were Javier Valverde, director of fresh-cut and convenience at Unica Group and member of the board of directors of Landaluz, and Nathalie Chavrier, head of the agri-food sector at the Andalusian Technology Corporation (CTA).
De Juanes highlighted the role of Fruit Logistica as a platform for promoting new developments worldwide. “Our last edition brought together more than 91,000 professionals from over 140 countries. There’s no doubt that we offer a first-class platform for companies in the sector to showcase innovation to buyers and opinion leaders around the world,” she said.
Through initiatives such as the Fruit Logistica Innovation Awards (FLIA), both in the general and technology categories, and the Farming Forward Stage presentations, the Berlin-based trade fair offers companies tools to share solutions, generate business, and strengthen their global presence. Furthermore, in the 2026 edition, new formats such as the trends and solutions Insight Stage and the New Product Showcase will reinforce the focus on innovation to develop new markets.
Unica Group, the winner of the 2023 FLIA award for its zucchini and cucumber hybrid, Zucchiolo, highlighted the impact of winning this award at the German trade fair. “Participating and winning the FLIA allowed us to open up new business opportunities and gain exposure to buyers from around the world,” Valverde said.
The event, which was attended by producers, marketers, and representatives of large-scale retailers, highlighted the Andalusian sector’s ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges such as rising production costs, water management, and competition from third countries.
With more than 260 exhibiting companies, the Spanish delegation was the third largest at the 2025 edition. “Not only in terms of numbers but also in terms of talent, innovation, and quality, the presence of Spanish companies in Berlin is always notable and highly anticipated by international buyers,” de Juanes.
“I encourage all professionals in the Andalusian and Spanish sectors to experience our next edition firsthand, which will bring together innovation, knowledge, and business opportunities on a global level.”
FRUIT LOGISTICA will be held in Berlin from February 4-6, 2026, and will feature an extensive programme of forums and thematic areas.
