The international food and beverage exhibition—one of the most important in Europe—strengthens its connection with Latin American buyers, offering a tailored business experience and real growth opportunities.
“Our goal is to make the participation of South American buyers in TUTTOFOOD not only effective, but truly strategic. And to achieve that, the work begins long before the fair itself.”
So states Alice Castellani, Director of the Incoming Office at TUTTOFOOD Milan, who is already envisioning the 2026 edition as a key opportunity to strengthen ties between the Italian agri-food system and South American markets.
According to Castellani, interest in Italian products across Latin American countries is growing tangibly.
“I recently visited Espacio Food & Service 2025 in Santiago de Chile, and even in that short time I could sense a genuine excitement surrounding European—and particularly Italian—products. There is real attention, genuine curiosity, a willingness to discover. In Chile, interest is especially strong within the Ho.Re.Ca. channel, and across Latin America, increasingly within retail as well. TUTTOFOOD Milan can truly make the difference.”
Tailor-made support from Bogotá
At the heart of the preparatory work for South American retail buyers and managers lies the TUTTOFOOD Bogotá Office, which serves as the first point of contact for retailers and distributors throughout the region.
“We are fully available to gather, several months in advance, all the specific needs of each buyer. This allows us to relay these needs to our offices in Italy, which then identify and pre-select the exhibitors most aligned with the buyer’s profile.”
The approach is personalized matchmaking: ISO-certified suppliers, private label manufacturers, branded products, premium lines, regional specialties, or competitively priced assortments—each requirement is taken into account to build a fully customized visit, optimizing the buyer’s time and maximizing commercial returns.
“Thanks to the close collaboration between Bogotá and Milan, every South American retail manager arrives at the fair with a tailor-made agenda. We know that time is a scarce resource, which is why we design the most efficient route through the exhibition halls, selecting stands, scheduling meetings, and facilitating direct encounters with producers.”
Understanding the product, conveying its value, selling it better
For Castellani, the true value of attending TUTTOFOOD lies not only in the quantity or variety of exhibitors, but in the opportunity to connect directly with those who create the products.
“Talking to the producer allows you to truly understand what lies behind a PDO cheese, an artisanal tomato sauce, or a gluten-free biscuit line. Once you understand that value, you can convey it to your customer. You can build coherent pricing, craft a strong narrative, and develop a distinctive offer.”
During the exhibition, buyers will have access to a broad spectrum of products—from high-end specialties to items designed for a wider and more accessible consumer base.
“It’s a tangible opportunity to build a complete assortment proposal, adapted to the realities and preferences of South American consumers.”
After the fair, the work continues
TUTTOFOOD’s commitment does not end when the fair closes. The organization continues to support participants during the post-show follow-up phase, ensuring that opportunities turn into concrete business agreements.
“At the end of the event, we collect all strategic contacts and connect European and Italian companies with South American buyers who have expressed interest. We assist companies step by step in preparing documentation, understanding local regulations, and establishing a solid commercial dialogue.”
This ongoing support is crucial, especially given the obstacles that still hinder long-distance business: cultural differences, bureaucratic hurdles, and logistical complexity.
“Geographical distances and regulatory differences remain a barrier for many Italian SMEs. That’s why our mission also includes helping transform an initial contact into a real opportunity—by simplifying processes, interpreting regulations, and overcoming barriers.”
An invitation to come, discover, and grow with TUTTOFOO
“I invite all Latin American retail professionals to view TUTTOFOOD 2026 not just as a trade show, but as a true business platform. Here, you will not only find suppliers, but strategic partners. Not just products, but market vision.”
Thus concludes Alice Castellani, reaffirming the spirit with which TUTTOFOOD 2026 prepares to welcome the retail community from across Latin America.
