Building a successful fruit and vegetable trade show: BIG Interview with Murat Özer, Interfresh

Interfresh Eurasia is the event that annually gathers more than 12.000 professionals in fruit and vegetables businesses of Turkey, Europe, Middle East and even Far East. This year, Interfresh will take place in Izmir (Turkey) on September 26-28.

 

Today we chat with Interfresh General Coordinator, Murat Özer, who shares what to expect from the event’s fifth edition and explains why this trade show is a must-visit for international fruit producers, suppliers, traders, and retailers.

 

Fructidor: Murat, could you tell us what's new with this fifth edition of Interfresh Eurasia?

 

Murat Özer: Sure! This year, we've expanded by 200 percent. Not only have we retained our existing customers, but we've also attracted new ones. The expansion is twofold: both in the number of exhibitors at the fairgrounds and in our visitor delegation program. We've broadened our showcase to include not just fresh fruits and vegetables but also dried, freeze-dried products, canned goods, and fruit juices as well.

 

 

Fructidor: That sounds impressive. What about the product types covered?

 

Murat Özer: We're showcasing five main product categories: fresh and dry fruit & vegetables, freeze-dried, canned goods and of course, fruits and vegetables juices. We also have sauces made from these fruits and vegetables.

 

Fructidor: How has the buyer turnout been compared to last year?

 

Murat Özer: Last year, we had 1,200 hosted buyers from 44 countries. This year, five months before the show, we've already reached buyers from 55 countries. The presence of international market chains is crucial as they are not just looking for one or two containers; they plan their purchases for the entire year.

 

Fructidor: What about the range of international participants this year?

 

Murat Özer: This year, we've got exhibitors from as far as Africa, creating a pavilion here. It’s truly becoming a meeting point not just for Turkish products but for a variety of regional items, including exotic fruits and even machinery, with several major international brands participating.

 

Fructidor: What opportunities does Turkey offer as a geopolitical location for potential exhibitors?

 

Murat Özer: Turkey is a crossroads between Asia and Europe, acting like a modern Silk Road. It’s an ideal base for reaching markets in northern territories like Russia and Central Asian countries, as well as the African market, thanks to visa-free access and direct flights from Turkish Airlines to over 200 countries.

 

Fructidor: And what should potential exhibitors and traders expect if they come to Interfresh this September?

 

Murat Özer: They should expect to meet a wide array of traders and exhibitors from around the region and globally. Turkey’s strategic importance as a production hub is increasing, and with government subsidies for exporters to acquire machinery and ease into trade, the opportunities are vast.

 

Fructidor: Is there anything else you think is important to add?

 

Murat Özer: Just that this is the fifth edition, but our seventh year running. Interfresh has become the showcase for Turkish products. With the changing climate, production is shifting from Europe to Turkey, enhancing Turkey’s role in global agriculture.

 

 

If you wish to participate in Interfresh Eurasia, send your inquiry