Executive Council Trip – Strategic Routes to Market: Poznań, Poland
As part of IFFI’s 2026 annual theme “Routes to Market”, the Executive Council will travel to Poznań, Poland, to explore one of Europe’s most dynamic and rapidly developing food markets. Each year, the Executive Council visits a leading food hub in Europe to gain first-hand insights into local market developments, consumer trends, and the strategies of leading customers and food industry players.
Poznań serves as an important gateway to the Polish market and offers businesses a strategic foothold in a country of nearly 38 million consumers and a GDP of approximately €800 billion. As the largest consumer market in Central and Eastern Europe after Germany, Poland continues to attract investment and innovation across the food sector, driven by rising purchasing power, changing consumer preferences, and a modernizing retail landscape.
Particularly strong growth can be seen in categories such as ready meals, convenience foods, organic products, plant-based alternatives, and functional nutrition. The presence of major retail chains including Lidl, Biedronka, Carrefour and Auchan, combined with well-developed distribution channels, makes market access relatively accessible for international companies.
Through company visits, expert briefings, and meetings with local industry leaders, participants will gain valuable insights into how businesses can successfully navigate and capitalize on opportunities in the Polish food market. The trip is designed to help Executive Council members better understand market-entry strategies, local partnerships, and emerging growth opportunities within one of Europe’s most promising food economies.
