This year’s edition of Freskon in Thessaloniki saw first time visitors from regions like Poland, the Middle East, Egypt, Scandinavia and Italy. A lot of established sectors were represented, such as stone fruit, citrus, pomegranate, top fruit and vegetable exporters. There were also a cooperative that exports pistachios who was here for the first time. The Kiwi Congress that was held along side Freskon was a success. Unlike the previous two editions, this year’s Kiwi Congress took place in the same hall where the importers and exporters were located, making it easier for visitors to get in touch with exhibitors. Some Greek visitors came to Freskon with only the Kiwi Congress in mind.
Click here for the photo report
Click here for the photo report
Some Greek exhibitors were motivated to attend Freskon in order to support their industry. They believe that being present at Freskon allows them to internationally promote Greek produce. Other larger players decided to attend Freskon as visitors instead of as exhibitors, as they found having a stand at Freskon every year to be expensive considering that there were few visitors.
Among the different stands, there were cooperatives dealing with stone fruits, apples, kiwis and much more. There were also central markets from Thessaloniki and Athens present. The Central Market of Thessaloniki was able to bring along representatives of its wholesale segment. As in previous years, this edition also saw EU funded companies and organizations, such as Hello Kiwi and Vegiterraneo.
The Helexpo team, one of the organizers of Freskon
In contrast to last year, there weren’t many companies to be found that were involved with packaging and machinery. However, the few that were present, were very happy with the opportunity to introduce their latest solutions such as a packaging company with their new seed tray in the market.
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Supermarket chains from Southeast Europe were present as well which was very interesting not only for visitors but for exhibitors too.
Though there may have been less visitors than previous years, the ones that came by were by default the type of potential business partners that most companies present would like to meet. The majority of the attendees of Freskon believe the event should carry on, as it helps the Greek agricultural sector to proliferate on the global market. Some believe that Greek traders should be aware of the fact that with only three editions to its name, Freskon is still starting out. In short, in order to establish itself in the industry, Freskon needs more support from fellow traders.
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Author: Peter Duivenvoorde / Yzza Ibrahim