Over 37,000 professionals converge at Vinitech-Sifel 2024 in Bordeaux

The Vinitech-Sifel 2024 trade show concluded its latest edition at the Parc des Expositions in Bordeaux after three intensive days, bringing together over 37,000 professionals from 80 countries. This biennial event, recognized as one of the leading international gatherings for the wine, arboriculture, and horticulture sectors, served as a platform for presentations, discussions, and exhibitions aimed at addressing the current challenges in the industry while showcasing innovations shaping its future.

With the participation of 750 exhibitors spread across five major thematic areas, the event facilitated knowledge exchange and the development of new business opportunities. Exhibitors highlighted the quality of contacts established during the event, with decision-makers and key industry influencers attending at both the national and international levels. Against a backdrop of economic and climate challenges impacting the agricultural sector, the fair positioned itself as a vital meeting point to explore strategies for adaptation and growth.

This year's attendees showed significant interest in solutions for automation, environmental transition, and market diversification. Delegations from emerging and traditional markets, including Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland, alongside representatives from countries such as Argentina, South Africa, Chile, Georgia, and Ukraine, underscored the event's global scope. These international connections fostered new trade perspectives, reinforcing the fair's role as a driver of export opportunities.

A notable highlight of the 2024 edition was the introduction of a new commercialization zone, focused on marketing, distribution, and sales strategies. This addition addressed the need to adapt market approaches to evolving consumer demands and habits. Organizers anticipate expanding this area in future editions, reflecting Vinitech-Sifel's commitment to supporting industry evolution.

The conference program featured 70 sessions led by 100 experts, tackling current topics such as climate change adaptation, sustainable production, and crop diversification. The event's opening session included an analysis of current wine consumption trends, particularly regarding red wines. Bernard Farges, the event's president, emphasized the need for innovation to reconnect with younger consumers, urging the industry to modernize wine's image and explore new approaches to communication and product design.

Technological innovation and sustainable solutions were at the forefront of the event. Innovations ranged from alternatives to phytosanitary products to the integration of artificial intelligence in process automation, reflecting a sector in constant transformation. Exhibitors demonstrated their commitment to reducing carbon footprints and aligning production practices with consumer expectations and emerging regulations.

The success of this year's edition underscores Vinitech-Sifel's importance as a hub for innovation, knowledge sharing, and networking in the sector. With a history dating back to 1977, the fair continues to solidify its status as a global benchmark. Organizers have already announced the next edition, scheduled for November 24–26, 2026, in Bordeaux, signaling the ongoing evolution of an event dedicated to meeting the sector's needs.