Leading exhibition organizer dmg events, in partnership with Koelnmesse, the force behind the globally renowned Anuga trade fair in Germany, has announced the launch of Anuga Select South Africa, a new business platform dedicated to the African food and beverage industry. The event evolves from the successful Africa Food Show (formerly Africa’s Big 7) and combines its established regional presence with the international reputation and reach of the Anuga brand.
Scheduled to take place from 22–24 June 2027 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the exhibition aims to strengthen trade links between Africa and global food and beverage markets while providing a dedicated platform for sourcing, networking, and business development.
The announcement follows the remarkable success of the latest Africa Food Show, which recorded a significant increase in participation, attracting visitors and exhibitors from more than 36 countries, including China, India, Germany, Brazil, Poland, and Pakistan. The strong international response highlighted the need for a larger, globally connected platform to support Africa’s rapidly growing food sector.
Bringing one of the world’s most recognized food industry brands to South Africa for the first time, Anuga Select South Africa will unite international suppliers, regional manufacturers, distributors, retailers, hospitality professionals, and foodservice buyers under one roof. The exhibition will showcase innovations, products, and solutions across the entire food and beverage value chain while fostering cross-border trade and strategic partnerships.
The launch comes at a time when Africa’s food and agribusiness sector is experiencing significant growth. Industry estimates project the market to reach US$1 trillion by 2030, driven by population growth, urbanization, and increasing consumer demand. South Africa, with its advanced infrastructure, established retail ecosystem, and strategic location, continues to serve as a key gateway to African markets.
The event is expected to attract senior decision-makers from supermarkets, wholesalers, distributors, hotels, restaurants, import-export businesses, foodservice companies, and e-commerce grocery platforms. Exhibitors will represent diverse sectors including dairy, meat and poultry, fresh produce, frozen foods, bakery products, beverages, organic foods, ingredients, food technology, packaging, and hospitality solutions.
Designed to support business expansion and market access, the exhibition will provide exhibitors with direct opportunities to connect with buyers seeking new products, supplier partnerships, and innovative solutions. In addition to the exhibition floor, the event will feature networking sessions, knowledge-sharing forums, and discussions on emerging consumer trends, food trade developments, and supply chain advancements across Africa.
Statements regarding the partnership:
Matt Denton, President of dmg events
“Anuga Select South Africa represents an exciting new chapter for the African food and beverage industry. By transforming the established market presence of Africa Food Show into the global recognition and expertise of the Anuga brand, we are creating a powerful platform that supports international trade, regional partnerships and long-term industry growth across Africa. The event is designed to deliver real business outcomes for exhibitors and visitors alike while supporting the continued evolution of Africa’s food economy.”
Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH:
“Anyone looking at Africa’s food industry today sees far more than growing consumer markets. Across many countries, strong businesses, innovative brands and new trading networks are emerging. International trade fair platforms create visibility and open doors to a global range of customers and partners, particularly for SMEs. With Anuga Select South Africa, we are bringing one of our most trusted brands into this dynamic environment and, together with dmg events, creating a platform that connects African and international market players.”
With its combination of international expertise, regional market knowledge, and strong industry backing, Anuga Select South Africa is poised to become one of the continent’s most influential business events for the food and beverage industry.