Fruitnet Tomato Congress looks to the future of tomatoes

Fruitnet Tomato Congress 2025 takes place in Malaga, Spain, on 11-12 November, featuring a day of talks, discussions and networking, followed by a day of tours to the facilities of Rijk Zwaan, Unica Group and Granada La Palma.

This year’s conference is focused on the future of the tomato sector, with a packed programme exploring the trends and demands that are likely to guide the business from now until 2030 and beyond.

Expert speakers, including Rabobank’s Lambert van Horen, Kacem Bennani Smires of Moroccan producer Delassus, José Antonio Haro of Spain’s Granada La Palma, David Del Pino of Freshtrategy and Andriy Yarmak of the FAO, will explore how issues such as climate change and logistical crises are giving rise to rapid changes in production, as well as to the sourcing strategies of Europe’s retailers and importers.

The role of innovation will be explored, with Max van den Hemel (Delphy), Ben Pieterse (TTA-ISO), Dr Antony Chapman (Phytoform Labs), Freddie Reed (Intelligent Growth Solutions) and Jan-Willem Snoeker (Merqato) offering a glimpse into how robotics, AI and other new technologies are expected to impact the tomato business of tomorrow.

Panel discussions will delve into the efforts of seed firms to boost resistance, particularly to ToBRFV and extreme conditions, the readiness of European consumers to technologies like gene-editing, and the ability of the tomato business to evolve to meet future demands.

But there’ll be ample opportunity to explore the on-site exhibition space and network with delegates from top suppliers and retailers such as Bama, Rewe, Carrefour, Marks & Spencer and Tesco.

Through Fruitnet Live, the event’s exclusive networking and information platform, delegates can learn all about the speakers, sponsors and exhibitors taking part, connect with fellow attendees, and plan and manage your meetings before, during and after the event.

Check the agenda out here, and register now.