AIBI Congress 2026 on French Riviera poised to reshape industrial bakery with innovation and sustainability
The AIBI Congress 2026 is set to take place from May 27 to 29 on the picturesque French Riviera, marking a significant chapter in the calendar of European industrial bakers. Jointly organised by the International Association of Plant Bakers (AIBI) and the European Federation of Bakery Ingredients (FEB), the upcoming congress promises to convene industry leaders and experts in a setting that beautifully blends heritage with forward-looking innovation. The event's agenda underscores critical themes shaping the future of industrial bakery, including sustainability, innovation, nutrition, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), talent development, and the evolving role of the sector in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Following the last congress held in Hamburg, Germany, in 2024, this edition will see AIBI under the leadership of Jean-Manuel Lévêque, who has resumed the presidency after previously serving from 2015 to 2019. A new president will be elected during the congress, signalling potential fresh directions for the organisation as it navigates the dynamic challenges and opportunities facing industrial baking.
The Congress’s thematic focus is timely, reflecting broader industry trends and societal demands. Sustainability remains a crucial priority for the food production sector, and the bakery industry is no exception, seeking ways to reduce its environmental impact while innovating in product development and processes. Nutrition and health considerations are becoming ever more central to consumer choice and regulatory frameworks, driving reformulations and new product innovations.
Digital transformation and AI adoption are also set to reshape bakery manufacturing, from precision in ingredient blending to predictive maintenance and enhanced supply chain management. Talent management and development are highlighted as essential to sustaining innovation, with the industry recognising the need to attract and retain skilled professionals equipped to leverage new technologies.
The choice of the French Riviera as the congress venue adds a layer of cultural and environmental richness to the event. The region’s blend of historical excellence and cutting-edge innovation provides an apt metaphor for the congress’s vision of uniting heritage and modernity in shaping "the bakery of tomorrow." While the exact location on the Riviera remains to be finalised, the congress organisers promise a unique experience in a spectacular setting.
This event aligns with a broader trend in 2026 of major scientific and industry congresses taking place in southern France, underscoring the region's growing appeal as a hub for international gatherings. For instance, the 26th ICID International Congress will convene in Marseille in October, focusing on water and agricultural resilience amid climate change—another critical theme impacting industries, including food production. Similarly, the IARIA Annual Congress scheduled in nearby Nice will address advances in science and technology such as AI, robotics, and smart cities.
Furthermore, the IASP World Conference in late October 2026 at Sophia Antipolis, near Cannes, will explore innovation ecosystems prioritising planetary and human well-being, highlighting the region's strategic role in fostering sustainable development and digital innovation.
The AIBI Congress 2026 thus sits within a rich tapestry of scientific, technological, and industrial meetings framing southern France as a centre for cutting-edge dialogue on sustainability, innovation, and the future of industry. It offers an opportunity for bakery industry executives and stakeholders to engage deeply with emerging trends and to network in an environment conducive to collaboration and inspiration.
More detailed information about the congress agenda, speakers, and registration will be released closer to the event on the official AIBI Congress website, signalling the organisers’ intent to keep the community engaged and informed as preparations progress.