Italy’s largest fresh produce industry trade fair attracted a bigger number of visitors than ever, according to organiser Cesena Fiera

Macfrut 2023 entrance

A record number of people attended the fortieth edition of Italian fresh produce trade fair Macfrut, according to the organisers of the show, which took place in Rimini on 3-5 May.

During the three-day trade fair, the halls of the Rimini Expo Centre reportedly attracted a total of 49,700 people, 29 per cent more than were present last year and 53 per cent more than in 2021 during the pandemic.

The landmark edition of Italy’s largest fresh fruit and vegetable trade event was described as a memorable one by those involved, who were graced with an appearance by Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic and the country’s head of state, on the eve of the event.

Then, on day one, the event was officially opened by Italy’s agriculture minister Francesco Lollobrigida.

Renzo Piraccini, president of Macfrut, said: “First of all, I would like to express my huge gratitude to all the exhibitors, institutions, sector organisations, the staff at Cesena Fiera, and the team of specialists who played a part in making this edition a success: our outstanding teamwork is what allowed us to host such an extraordinary trade fair.”

He added: “Macfrut shows what the fruit and vegetable industry is capable of when it comes together to work towards a common goal, adding value to the entire supply chain. We are putting together a major event, which is what our fresh produce industry deserves.”

Macfrut 2024 takes place at the Rimini Expo Centre on 8-10 May.

Staff Cesena Fiera 2023

The Macfrut team in Rimini, including Renzo Piraccini (tenth from right)