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Upcoming Fruit Attraction 2026: A Global Hub for Produce Industry

From October 6 to 8, 2026, Madrid will once again transform into the central location for the fruit and vegetable sector with the Fruit Attraction 2026. Organized by IFEMA MADRID and FEPEX (the Spanish Federation of Producers and Exporters of Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, and Live Plants), this year's event promises to be a bustling marketplace for industry professionals and is already over 90% booked.

Current Status of Exhibitors

In a recent announcement, María José Sánchez, the director of Fruit Attraction, highlighted that nearly 72,000 square meters of exhibition space have already been reserved, just shy of 2,000 square meters from the previous year’s total. Companies from 63 countries have confirmed their participation, establishing a promising atmosphere for this year’s event.

Expectations for Attendance and Exhibitors

The projections for the 18th edition of Fruit Attraction are particularly optimistic, with over 2,500 exhibitors expected to showcase their offerings. The exhibition is set to cover more than 80,000 square meters dedicated to fresh fruits and vegetables and attract upwards of 121,000 professional visitors from 150 countries. It is evident that the event will not just serve as a business platform, but also a celebration of the diversity of fresh produce from around the globe.

Venue Layout and Sectors

The exhibition will span across 10 halls, totaling over 162,000 square meters of space, maintaining the same layout and sector divisions as last year to facilitate visitor access. Odd-numbered halls (3, 5, 7, 9) will prominently feature national offerings and the InnovaTech area, while even-numbered halls (4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14) will present international products from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia, along with a dedicated area for Fresh Food Logistics located in Hall 4. Additionally, most halls will host an Auxiliary Industry section, representing the complete supply chain of the sector.

Highlights of This Edition

A key focus of this year's exhibition will be the potato, reflecting its vital role in ensuring food security and promoting healthy diets. The fair will also once again feature the Organic Tour, which is designed to increase visibility for companies offering certified organic products.

Moreover, the International Buyers Programme will provide a robust platform for international exposure and expansion, inviting 700 major buyers, including retail purchasing directors, importers, and wholesalers from more than 50 countries. Noteworthy this year are the Guest Importing Countries, which will spotlight China and the United Arab Emirates.

Awards and Recognitions

For the third consecutive year, the Best Stand Awards will be presented, sponsored by WAH Show. Awards will be given in four categories based on creativity, design, and commitment to sustainability: Most Original Stand, Best Stand Design, Most Sustainable Stand, and the Visitors' Favorite Stand.

In addition, the Innovation Hubs Awards will recognize outstanding projects, products, or services within the industry, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, deployed technology, and expertise. All submissions will be displayed during the three-day exhibition in the Innovation Hub area.

Knowledge Exchange Opportunities

Fruit Attraction continues to be a pivotal meeting point for knowledge exchange, with extensive seminars embracing a variety of topics and featuring prominent speakers. The agenda includes specialized events like the Avocado Congress and the Biofruit Congress, creating an opportunity for professionals to deepen their understanding and network within the industry.

The event will take place at the IFEMA Exhibition Center from Tuesday, October 6 to Thursday, October 8, with opening hours from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, and on the last day until 5:00 PM. This year's Fruit Attraction is anticipated not only to foster business relationships but also to play a significant role in the evolution of the global fresh produce market.

Conclusion

As the countdown begins to Fruit Attraction 2026, the anticipation grows. With overwhelming participation and a comprehensive program designed to cater to the industry’s diverse needs, attendees can expect a rich experience in both networking and learning, setting the stage for future advancements in the fruit and vegetable sector.