Food production has become a strategic asset in a global context shaped by trade tensions, climate crises, and increasing competition for resources. In this scenario, F4F – Expo FoodTech 2026 and Pick&Pack for Food Industry, the major technology event for the food and beverage sector, will bring together key industry players on May 27 to 28 at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) to analyze how inflation, tariffs, regulations, and traceability are redefining markets and margins.
Over two days, more than 300 international experts will share the latest trends, success stories, and industry forecasts driving changes in how food is produced, how processes are optimized, and how the sector is advancing toward greater efficiency and sustainability. In this context, experts such as Oriol Molins, Managing Director International at Internacional de Embutidos; Nestor Nava, General Manager of Grupo Gallo; Javier Roza, General Manager of Mantequerías Arias; and José María Bonmatí, Director General of AECOC, will explore how brands can turn challenges into opportunities through origin, sustainability, and the smart use of data—activating key levers such as diversification, strategic partnerships, and compelling storytelling to position themselves in the new global landscape.
Senior Leadership and Change: How to Lead the New Food Era
The transformation facing the food industry will require its top executives to redefine strategies, accelerate innovation, and strengthen their organizations’ adaptability. With this premise, the Food 4 Future World Summit will bring together senior executives such as Jorge Escudero, CEO of Nueva Pescanova; Cristóbal Valdés, CEO of Deoleo, the world’s largest olive oil company; Susana Entero, CEO of Kellanova, owner of brands such as Corn Flakes, Special K, and Pringles; and Jordi Llach, CEO of Nestlé Iberia, to discuss how they are addressing challenges such as digitalization, the rise of artificial intelligence, the need to advance sustainability, and evolving consumer habits.
Alongside them, François Lacombre, General Manager of Danone, who has strengthened the company’s commitment to scientific innovation, sustainability, and the circular economy; Antonella Sottero, General Manager of Ferrero, the Italian group that combines tradition and innovation to ensure iconic brands such as Nutella and Kinder continue to resonate across generations; Óscar Vicente, CEO of Angulas Aguinaga; and Marta González-Mesones, General Manager of Unilever Spain, will delve into leadership and transformation in the FMCG sector. Expo Foodtech 2026 will highlight how new leadership approaches are impacting corporate culture, decision-making, and companies’ innovation capacity, at a time defined by uncertainty and the need to anticipate change.
In addition, César Valencoso, one of the most recognized voices in consumer goods analysis in Spain and Consumer Insights Director for Southern Europe at Kantar, will address the role of the consumer as a catalyst for change. Alongside him, José Ramón Castro, General Manager of Siemens Digital Industries, will analyze the technological trends that are reshaping the food industry.
In a context where efficiency and productivity are key to sector competitiveness, more than 8,000 professionals from the food industry will attend Expo Foodtech to discover technological solutions in AI, data analytics, robotics, cybersecurity, and food processing and automation, helping them optimize processes and improve food production and distribution.
