A select group of attendees extended their first day's experience of Fruit Logistica in Berlin by a few hours. In Hall 3.2, the Holland Fresh Group Pavilion celebrated its 25th anniversary. What started with a handful of companies has, by 2024, grown to a record number of 156 participating companies covering 3,200m2. The festivities at the trade show included cakes for the early participants, a seminar, and, of course, a networking reception on Wednesday evening.
Along with snacks and quite a few drinks, Karel Heijs, Messe Berlin's VP, and Janine Luten from GroentenFruit Huis addressed the guests. Janine, who is also the director of the Holland Fresh Group Foundation, took those gathered down memory lane, highlighting several key moments.
Those included 1999 (when the pavilion started), 2004 (Fruit Logistica separating from Grüne Woche), and 2008-2020, when Ger van Burik passionately managed the pavilion. That was also marked with a reception in 2020. These days, Muriel Halling organizes events.
As part of the anniversary, Janine reflected on the current state of the international fruit and vegetable sector. The GroentenFruit Huis and Holland Fresh Group Foundation director foresees market consolidation.
You can see a photo impression of the anniversary reception held last Wednesday here.