Key gelato markets show growth ahead of Sigep World 2026 edition
Sigep World is set to return to Rimini in January. Pic: Sigep
The organisers of the Sigep World event in Italy have welcomed latest market analysis for gelato market that has revealed positive growth for the sector, ahead of its latest edition of the international show, reports Neill Barston.
Confectionery Production has been a media partner for the key sector gathering, which returns to Rimini between 16-20 January, showcasing the best in global ice-cream, pastry, chocolate and pizza markets.
According to latest data on frozen dessert consumption, Italy, Spain and France have made up 68% of portions sold in the top five markets, with growth in Italy up 3% year-on year. Consequently, the Italian sector is now worth some €3billion in value.
As for Sigep itself, the event has successfully rebranded as Sigep World, reflecting its international aspirations, and is set to beheld in its 47th edition in the New Year.
For the 2026 iteration, there will be more than 1,300 exhibiting brands from over 30 countries, distributed across 30 halls, and an estimated number of visiting professional operators from over 150 nations.
From our previous coverage of the event, the show has delivered an eclectic mix of key businesses right across the spectrum of the industry, from smaller independent companies, through to major global players.
As the organising team noted, the artisanal gelato offer will be the most complete on a worldwide scale, covering the entire value chain. Technology and equipment (from the latest generation machines to refrigerated display cases), raw materials, ingredients and semi-finished products, design and furnishings, and the most innovative digital solutions for every foodservice business model: from independent gelato parlours to organised chains, quick service restaurants, fine dining venues and luxury hospitality.
Global focus
Notably, the event is set to intensify initiatives aimed at expanding the presence of Italian artisanal gelato in key markets. Starting with the ‘Sigepland’ project for Germany, the second world market in terms of number of gelato parlours after Italy.
The venture includes personalised guided tours for thousands of German professionals, also facilitated by the direct Munich-Rimini flight during the days of the Show, to favour networking and encourage them to explore the exhibition offer.
A programme brimming with amiable moments designed to offer an immersive experience. SIGEP World’s Guest Country at the 47th edition will be India: a choice that proves the considerable expansion and enormous potential of the Asian market for the Italian hospitality and gelato industry.
Furthermore, the Sigep World arena will be hosting the highly anticipated Gelato World Cup, the biennial international competition in which teams of gelato professionals will be battling it out.
The eleventh edition will see Italy, holder of the 2024 title, competing against 11 other top nations: France, Belgium, Poland, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, China, Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Ecuador. The teams will take part in eight spectacular tests that combine technical rigour, taste and artistic ability.
Circana’s CREST data underline the centrality of Italy in the EU market: “Despite a few uncertainties linked to unfavourable climatic conditions, summer is a gelato consumption driver in Italy, France and Spain, which together represent 68% of portions served in the top 5 European countries,” explained Matteo Figura, executive director of Foodservice Italia at Circana.
“Gelato confirms its status within the small accessible luxury category that consumers are not willing to relinquish,” he added of the market’s notable resilience amid wider food and drink market turbulence.
