Italy: Guest Country Partner

Italy will be the Guest Country Partner of ExpoFoodTech & Pick&Pack 2026, bringing its innovation ecosystem, industrial expertise, and technological leadership in food and packaging to Bilbao.

Recognized globally for its strong food industry and manufacturing capabilities, Italy is now also emerging as one of Europe’s most dynamic agrifoodtech ecosystems, combining tradition with cutting-edge technologies that are transforming the future of food production, processing, and packaging.

During ExpoFoodTech & Pick&Pack, the Italian delegation will showcase its technological capabilities, innovative companies, and leading institutions, strengthening collaboration with international stakeholders across the entire food value chain.

Italy’s agrifoodtech sector is experiencing remarkable growth and momentum.

According to the “State of AgrifoodTech in Italy 2025” report developed by Eatable Adventures, investment in the Italian agrifoodtech ecosystem reached €121.6 million in 2025, representing an 18% increase compared to the previous year, even while global and European investment slowed down.

The ecosystem continues to expand rapidly:

• 501 agrifoodtech startups are currently active in Italy

• Startup activity has grown 23% year-on-year

• The sector generated more than 4,400 jobs in 2025, reflecting strong expansion and scaling opportunities

Innovation in the Italian ecosystem spans multiple areas including food production and processing, agritech, logistics technologies, and digital solutions for retail and hospitality.

Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, automation, and machine learning are increasingly driving innovation across the sector, positioning Italy as a key European hub for agrifood innovation.

As part of the Guest Country Partner program, ExpoFoodTech & Pick&Pack 2026 will collaborate with Eatable Adventures, one of the leading global agrifoodtech accelerators and venture platforms.

Through this partnership, Italian startups will have a prominent role in the event, gaining visibility and access to the international food innovation ecosystem.

The collaboration will help connect startups, investors, corporates, and industry leaders, creating new opportunities for:

• Technology transfer and industrial partnerships

• Investment and scaling opportunities

• International expansion for agrifoodtech startups

• Collaboration between startups and established food and packaging companies

This initiative reinforces the commitment of ExpoFoodTech & Pick&Pack to foster innovation and accelerate the transformation of the global food industry.

Italy’s participation will include:

✔ High-level conferences and panels with Italian industry leaders
✔ A strong presence of Italian startups and innovation hubs
✔ Networking opportunities with investors, corporates, and technology providers
✔ Showcasing cutting-edge solutions in food processing, automation, packaging, and sustainability