KTC BV at ISM Cologne: Exploring Innovation and Opportunity in the Global Sweets & Snacks Industry

From February 1–4, KTC BV was represented at ISM Cologne by our General Manager, Gasper Marusa. As the world’s leading trade fair dedicated to sweets and snacks, ISM once again proved to be a key meeting point for producers, traders, brand owners, and innovators shaping the future of the industry.

A Global Stage for a Dynamic Industry

Walking the halls of ISM Cologne offers a unique snapshot of how the sweets and snacks sector continues to evolve. This year’s edition highlighted a strong focus on product differentiation, premiumisation, private label development, and consumer-driven innovation, reflecting shifting expectations across global markets.

From traditional confectionery categories to new snack concepts and ingredient-driven solutions, the exhibition showcased how manufacturers are adapting to changing consumer preferences—balancing indulgence with quality, transparency, and functionality.

Insight Through Direct Engagement

Throughout the four days, Gasper engaged in a wide range of discussions with existing partners, new contacts, and industry peers, creating space for meaningful exchange beyond surface-level introductions. These conversations offered valuable insight into:

• Emerging market trends and demand patterns

• New product concepts and category developments

• Opportunities for private label and tailored solutions

• The growing importance of flexibility and speed-to-market

Being present at ISM allowed for real-time understanding of how brands and suppliers are positioning themselves for the year ahead, and where opportunities are forming across both established and emerging markets.

Expanding Networks, Creating Opportunity

One of the strongest values of ISM Cologne lies in its ability to bring together the global sweets and snacks community in one place. For KTC BV, the fair provided an excellent platform to expand our network, reconnect with long-standing partners, and initiate new conversations that may develop into future collaborations.

These interactions not only strengthened existing relationships but also opened doors to new opportunities within the industry, supporting KTC’s continued growth and exploration of new product segments and partnerships.

Looking Ahead

ISM Cologne once again confirmed its role as a forward-looking industry platform—one that offers both strategic perspective and tangible opportunity. The insights gathered during the fair will feed into KTC BV’s ongoing evaluation of market developments, helping us stay aligned with industry direction and customer needs.

We return from Cologne inspired by the level of innovation, engagement, and openness across the sector, and we look forward to continuing the conversations initiated at ISM in the months ahead.

As always, we remain committed to building strong, long-term partnerships and exploring new possibilities within the global food industry.