Preparations for Drinktec 2025, taking place in Munich from September 15 to 19, are in full swing. According to the organizers, Yontex, the alliance between Drinktec and Brau Beviale, more than 1,000 exhibitors from over 50 countries will showcase their solutions across 73,000 square meters. The focus will be on the entire process chain in beverage and liquid food production and on the industry’s current challenges. Rolf Keller, Managing Director at Yontex, noted that Drinktec remains closely aligned with market needs and emphasized that the strong response to the 2025 event reflects this orientation.
Strong international participation expected at Drinktec
According to the organizers, the ratio of one-third German to two-thirds international exhibitors will again be achieved in 2025. Drinktec has firmly established itself as the world’s leading trade fair for manufacturers in the beverage and liquid food sectors. Munich has thus remained a global meeting point for ingredients, process technology, and machinery since 1951.
Industry data confirms the need for new momentum
According to the VDMA, production in the food processing and packaging machinery sector declined slightly in 2024 by just under two percent, reaching €16.1 billion. At the same time, exports rose by six percent to €10.6 billion. Investment activity in Germany fell short of expectations, so export growth was unable to fully compensate for domestic losses. In contrast, packaging machinery saw a two percent increase, particularly driven by growth in beverage packaging machinery.
Against this backdrop, the industry is looking to Drinktec for new momentum. VDMA representative Richard Clemens emphasized the importance of the trade fair as a platform for direct exchange with international stakeholders.
Liquidrome at Drinktec: New center for knowledge and exchange
Drinktec’s supporting program has been redesigned. At the heart of it is the “Liquidrome” in Hall C4, a space for lectures, discussions, scientific insights, and exhibitor presentations. The concept was developed in collaboration with the VDMA and revolves around three main themes: Circularity & Resource Management, Data2Value, and Lifestyle & Health. Topics under "Circularity & Resource Management" include water reuse, wastewater treatment, energy recovery, and sustainable packaging. The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will also be addressed. "Data2Value" will focus on how AI and machine learning can improve processes, from flavor prediction to predictive maintenance and intelligent cleaning systems. "Lifestyle & Health" will highlight non-alcoholic or low-alcohol beverages, functional drinks, and plant-based ingredients, including those derived from brewing by-products.
Drinktec Startup Zone and innovation segments grow
The Startup Zone remains part of the Liquidrome and will feature German startups supported by the BMWK, as well as a number of international companies. These startups focus on digital tools, energy efficiency, and new ingredients for beverage production. The Health Bar, also located within the Liquidrome, will present concepts for health-promoting beverages, a fast-growing segment that, according to market researchers, could grow by over 8 percent annually through 2028. In addition, the New Beverage Concept (NBC) special area in Hall C3 will explore new flavors and ingredients beyond health-related trends.
Dr. Roman Werner from TUM Venture Lab Food/Agro/Biotech highlighted that sustainable beverage innovations can only succeed if climate protection, health, and efficient large-scale production are tackled together.
Drinktec Roadshow strengthens global market presence
Leading up to the trade fair, the Drinktec team visited more than 20 countries as part of a global Roadshow in cooperation with the VDMA. These visits were aimed at strengthening ties with local associations and understanding strategic developments in key markets. The organizers reported widespread international interest and emphasized that in many countries, Drinktec represents one of the first opportunities since the pandemic to engage with innovations and technology live once again. Based on participant feedback, the general sentiment across markets points to growth.
