2-5 Sep 2024
MCEC Melbourne

Talking Trends

Talking Trends returns in 2024 and is more relevant than ever! In a post-pandemic world, it’s now even more crucial to keep up with key industry trends, and this stage will do just that! Connect with and hear from a panel of guest speakers, who share a world of industry knowledge, to join vital discussions that unravel key trends, advances, opportunities and innovations affecting the food industry. A must-attend for those who regularly reinvigorate their business.

2 - 5 September
Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre
Free

2023 Program

As the Australian Hospitality industry is re-bounding strongly in 2023, what are the main trends and developments taking place? What does the near future look like? And what are the main challenges experienced by foodservice operators in today's market? Sissel Rosengren, Managing Director of Food Industry Foresight, delivers an insightful overview of the Australian Foodservice Market. With her extensive expertise in the industry, she skillfully navigates through the state, size, and notable developments within this dynamic market.


Find out how to provide assurance for sustainable seafood offering in a landscape confronted by global warming, population growth, mislabelling and substitution as well as greenwashing. Increasing the supply of blue foods through better fisheries management can make food more affordable for low-income populations, helping to avoid 166 million micronutrient deficiencies by 2030. MSC works in alignment with the UN SDG to meet some of these targets. Hear straight from Grant Logue of Harley & Johns (independent fishmonger) on his sourcing journey to meet growing global trends and consumer expectations on sustainability


Embark on a captivating culinary journey with John McFadden, a true culinary prodigy and world champion Chef. In this enthralling discussion, John McFadden will take us through his extraordinary path to culinary greatness, sharing the trials, triumphs, and invaluable lessons he learned along the way.


There are already well over 200 foodservice robotic solutions around the world. Hear about and explore the latest and most captivating developments in innovation, AI, IoT, digitization, automation, and robotics in foodservice.


Sissel Rosengren, Managing Director of Food Industry Foresight, delivers an insightful overview of the Australian Foodservice Market. With her extensive expertise in the industry, she skillfully navigates through the state, size, and notable developments within this dynamic market.


In this engaging and enlightening session, attendees will explore a curated selection of the latest AI-powered applications revolutionizing the food industry. Whether you're an entrepreneur running a small-scale restaurant or the CEO of a multinational food corporation, you'll find valuable insights to streamline operations, increase customer satisfaction, and maximize revenue.

Our expert speaker for this session is Business Futurist, Craig Rispin - who will guide you through the latest trends in AI, from smart inventory management tools that predict demand, to AI-powered recipe developers creating innovative menus. Discover how AI can enhance precision farming practices, ensuring sustainability and improving food quality. Learn about how advanced predictive analytics can optimize your supply chain, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

We'll delve into real-world case studies of businesses that have effectively harnessed these technologies, providing you with practical strategies to implement in your own operations.

With a focus on practicality and future trends, this session is essential for anyone looking to elevate their food business to the next level using AI. Get ready to step into the future of the food industry, where technology and cuisine blend to create extraordinary outcomes.


Join us for an insightful and inspiring discussion with Wes Lambert and Tony Green, prominent figures in the foodservice industry and a passionate advocates. In this engaging session, Wes and Tony will share their extensive expertise and firsthand experiences, shedding light on the critical role of advocacy in shaping a thriving and sustainable foodservice landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, learn from a seasoned advocates, and be inspired to make a difference in the foodservice world.


Join Chef Adam Moore who has worked with leading plant based protein developers, and a pioneer in culinary revolutions, as he leads an engaging panel session. The focus of the discussion will be on the significance of plant-based dining and its profound role in our future.


Join Natalie Bolt from The Table Food Consultants for an inspiring presentation on adopting an environmentally conscious approach to revolutionize your foodservice business and enhance its success.


Join us for an insightful session that explores the high-stakes world of food industry startups. This session will illuminate the innovative trends that are attracting billion-dollar investments, making a transformative impact on the global food ecosystem.

Craig Rispin, Business Futurist who has been tracking investment trends for years will guide you through the complex landscape of food tech, revealing the startups that are catching the attention of venture capitalists and private equity firms. From plant-based protein startups and cultured meat technology to innovative food delivery services and cutting-edge agritech firms, we'll take a deep dive into where the smart money is heading.

You'll learn about the criteria that investors are looking for in successful food industry startups, including scalability, sustainability, and disruption potential. We'll also analyze successful case studies of recent billion-dollar investments, shedding light on what made these startups stand out in a highly competitive market.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking funding, an investor searching for the next big opportunity, or simply interested in the future of food, this session will equip you with the insights to understand this rapidly evolving sector.

Join us to delve into the fascinating realm where finance meets food, and discover the billion-dollar trends shaping the future of the food industry.


Sissel Rosengren, Managing Director of Food Industry Foresight, delivers an insightful overview of the Australian Foodservice Market. With her extensive expertise in the industry, she skillfully navigates through the state, size, and notable developments within this dynamic market.


The very experienced Chef Adam Moore will take restaurant owners on a flavorful journey, unveiling the secrets to finding true flavor in product and menu development. Drawing upon years of expertise and culinary mastery, Adam will delve into the essential elements that create a memorable dining experience that suits your venue.


There are already well over 200 foodservice robotic solutions around the world. Hear about and explore the latest and most captivating developments in innovation, AI, IoT, digitization, automation, and robotics in foodservice.


As financial pressures mount in the culinary world, there is sentiment that an iPad could evolve into a chef's closest companion, potentially rivalling the significance of a trusty chef's knife.

In an environment where time is a precious commodity, especially when exceeding 45 hours per week, it's imperative to shift towards a smarter, more efficient approach rather than relying solely on arduous effort. Alongside the prevailing challenges concerning wage equity and mental well-being, the current excessive work hours are no longer tenable.

Join this session to explore the ways in which iPads and cutting-edge software can play a pivotal role in orchestrating a financially sustainable kitchen. Discover how these tools can contribute to the transformation of kitchen operations for the better.


In today's fiercely competitive business landscape, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. As industries evolve and consumer preferences rapidly change, innovative product development is the key to capturing market share and winning customer loyalty. When it comes to unleashing creativity and enhancing your offerings, partnering with a skilled culinarian can be a game-changer for your business. Adam Moore A globally recognised Culinogist, Industry Thought Leader and Innovator has reshaped many Australian and Global Brands with this innovative approach.


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