The 25th International Confectionery Congress of SWEETS GLOBAL NETWORK e. V. once again brought together numerous representatives of the confectionery and snack industry in Berlin this year. For us at GQS, the event not only offers exciting impulses, it is above all a place for reunions and personal encounters.

Sebastian Koll, Bettina Huber, Alexander Duesener and Thomas Schnöller were on site for GQS.

Technical highlights and industry-relevant trends

The congress focused on current developments and future issues in the industry. Key topics included

• The future of the confectionery industry – trends, consumer behavior and innovations
• Cashierless store concepts and their significance for retailers and consumers
• AI First – how artificial intelligence influences business models
• Impulse purchases at the self-checkout
• Gen Z, TikTok & influencer commerce – new formats and dynamics in consumer marketing

A congress with character and encounters that connect

What has made the SGN Congress special for many years is not just the professional diversity. Above all, it is the personal environment that characterizes it.

Many participants have known each other for years and yet new conversations, new perspectives and new connections are formed every time. The special spirit of this event is evident during the breaks: no hectic pace, no sales pressure, but genuine interest, open exchange and a strong sense of belonging.

As always, it was enriching for us to see familiar faces again and make new contacts at the same time. This mix makes the congress a place where expertise and community come together in a special way.

Part of a strong community

We at GQS are proud to be part of this lively SGN community. Our thanks go to Joachim Eckert and Oliver Peik, who have once again created a framework that is professionally convincing and at the same time enables an atmosphere that remains personal, inspiring and light.

We are returning to Munich with many new impressions, ideas and encounters and are already looking forward to seeing you again next year.