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The global food and beverage industry is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing sectors, holding importance in many countries. However, the industry is also characterised by intense competition, price pressure, numerous product innovations and ever shorter product life cycles. As a result, manufacturers are continuously investing in high-performance technologies to increase efficiency, flexibility and sustainable production and packaging processes, driving a high demand for machines.

Opening opportunities at Drinktec

For all beverage producers, the requirements are clear: product safety, efficient processing technologies, maximum yield, optimal utilisation of raw materials (including all by-products), and futureproofing of operations. Drinktec 2025, taking place from 15 to 19 September in Munich, presents a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and forward-looking solutions tailored to their production needs. Across eleven halls at Messe München, every step of the supply chain will be represented. A major strength of this world-leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry is the presence of all key technology providers and solution experts involved in the manufacture and processing of beverages.

Drinktec is particularly strong with its comprehensive range of live demonstrations: here, every user can see in detail how the technology supports fast and efficient production. Application examples from different performance areas offer the heterogeneous user group of manufacturers of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and producers of liquid dairy products a broad perspective on future production and logistics scenarios. The use of data pools and the insights they provide into processes throughout the entire value chain also promise great potential.

On the agenda at this year's event:

There is a packed agenda for this year, including three focus topics – also featured in the supporting programme – that highlight the potential that the industry can still leverage for its future development:

Under the central theme ‘Circularity & Resource Management,’ Drinktec 2025 will delve into efficient resource utilisation across the entire value chain. Opportunities within the industry range from the use of bio-based raw materials and circular solutions at every stage of the beverage and liquid food production process, to the reuse of production by-products and other residual materials. Solutions such as material recovery, energy efficiency and closed-loop systems, often developed in collaboration with other industries, are set to provide new momentum towards economically viable and sustainable production strategies for beverage manufacturers.

The focus topic ‘Lifestyle & Health’ will highlight forward-thinking beverage concepts. The strong presence of ingredient suppliers in hall C3 underscores the continued importance of flavour diversity and innovative beverage formulations. Market insights further support expectations for new product developments, revealing a global trend among consumers towards wellbeing and health-conscious lifestyles.

In-depth data insights will be available through ‘Data2Value,' the third thematic focus of the Drinktec programme, offering a comprehensive toolkit for optimisation across the entire production chain. Digitalisation efforts are centred on generating added value from data: analysing machines and process data can improve resource efficiency, minimise production downtime and enhance operational flexibility. Leveraging data ultimately delivers tangible benefits – increased efficiency, improved product safety, higher equipment availability and performance, and greater transparency throughout manufacturing and packaging processes. 

Images: ©Yontex/Thomas Plettenberg