FRUIT LOGISTICA has become the world’s leading trade fair dedicated to the fruit and vegetable industry. What began as a modest gathering of professionals has evolved into a global meeting point for fresh produce suppliers, distributors, supermarket buyers, logistics specialists, and innovators from more than 150 countries. Held annually in Berlin, FRUIT LOGISTICA offers a powerful platform for networking, deal-making, and showcasing the future of the global fresh produce sector.
In this exclusive interview, Riad Beladi speaks with Alexander Stein, Director of FRUIT LOGISTICA, to learn more about the origins of the event, how it rose to global prominence, and what to expect in 2026.
- Over the years, FRUIT LOGISTICA has grown into the most important event for the global fresh produce industry. What key milestones or strategic decisions helped drive this growth?
FRUIT LOGISTICA actually started back in 1993, which was quite a bold move at the time, to be honest. Messe Berlin and Fruchthandel Magazin came up with the idea, as they felt the fruit and vegetable industry needed its own dedicated platform. Up until then, the sector was somewhat lost within general food shows – there was no real home for it.
The goal was therefore to bring the entire value chain together in one place and give the industry a face, making its economic power more visible. Not only was Berlin in the heart of Europe, it had already hosted the world’s largest food exhibition, the Grüne Woche, for decades, making it the perfect location.
The first edition featured just113 exhibitors, and many industry insiders were sceptical. But it quickly grew. By the third year, we had to move to larger halls, and soon the major players came on board. From there, it just took off.
Today, over 30 years later, we’re proud to say that FRUIT LOGISTICA is the world’s leading trade show for the fresh produce industry. However, the original vision remains: to connect the industry, foster innovation and provide a space where business and ideas can flourish.
- Looking ahead to FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026, what new features, formats, or innovations can exhibitors and visitors expect? Looking ahead to FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026, there’s a lot for exhibitors and trade visitors to get excited about. One big highlight is the brand-new Insights Stage. It’s where start-ups will pitch live on stage, and exhibitors can also showcase their products and services across the entire value chain. The idea is to create a flexible space that really encourages interaction and boosts visibility – whether you’re just starting out or already well established. Another fresh addition for 2026 are the Expo Tours to Berlin’s wholesale and retail markets. These guided tours will give trade visitors exclusive, behind-the-scenes insights into how fresh produce is distributed across the city. It’s a great way to experience the supply chain in action. We’re also extending our focus on innovations and new developments by introducing special product areas called ‘New Product Showcase’, displaying products from all exhibition sectors. These areas, which are separate from the FRUIT LOGISTICA Innovation Award areas, will shine a spotlight on the latest products and innovations from exhibitors and can be booked for an additional fee.
All these new features are designed to give participants even more value – with a mix of inspiration, visibility, and hands-on experiences.
- How does FRUIT LOGISTICA demonstrate its international reach and commitment to global fresh produce markets?
The global scope of the FRUIT LOGISTICA network is reflected in its strong presence across key international markets. In recent months, FRUIT LOGISTICA has already connected the global fresh produce industry through Meet Ups in India, Vietnam, and Thailand. As part of the FRUIT LOGISTICA family, ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA will take place from 3 to 5 September 2025 in Hong Kong, bringing together industry professionals from across Asia and beyond. In addition, FRUIT LOGISTICA is co-hosting the China Meet Up on 8–9 September in Guangzhou and the Peru Meet Up on 28–29 October in Lima. These events strengthen international partnerships and support business growth throughout the global fruit and vegetable supply chain.
- Are there any additional events or forums within FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026 that will focus on sustainability, technology, or retail trends relevant to supermarket buyers and food distributors?
Yes – sustainability, innovation and retail-focused trends are central to FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026. In our Smart Agri exhibition segment, trade visitors will discover eco-friendly technologies such as precision farming, water-efficient irrigation and AI-driven supply chains. The Organic Route brings together over 200 certified organic exhibitors, reflecting the growing demand for sustainably grown produce.
Innovation takes center stage in at Startup World and on the Farming Forward stage will present groundbreaking solutions in agtech, digital farming, crop science and post-harvest technology. These formats are especially relevant for supermarket buyers and food distributors looking to future-proof their sourcing and stay ahead of key industry shifts.