Italy’s food industry is more than a sector of the economy: it is one of the ways the country is recognized around the world. At SIAL Paris, we met with Arnaud Boussemart, Group CFO of Comexposium, the group behind the SIAL events, to discuss the international appeal of Italian cuisine and the opportunities emerging from its partnership with TuttoPizza.
In your view, what role does Italy’s food industry play in the global market?
Italy’s food industry carries considerable weight. In terms of international recognition, it stands alongside other major symbols of Made in Italy, such as fashion. Pizza and pasta are known everywhere, and the international mix of exhibitors and visitors at SIAL offers tangible evidence of that reach. When people think of Italy, ingredients such as tomatoes, olive oil and pasta immediately come to mind. These products offer more than flavor: they convey an experience and a culture. In that sense, promoting Italian food truly means bringing Italy to the consumer’s plate.
Beyond its economic value, what cultural and social dimensions does Italian cuisine bring with it?
Italian cuisine is deeply rooted in family, community and sharing. Food creates opportunities to come together: sitting around a table creates a welcoming atmosphere, encourages conversation and helps people open up. It is an essential part of the Italian experience, and something that people can understand and appreciate anywhere in the world.
The partnership with the Campania Region and Universal Marketing for TuttoPizza marks an important step. What is the strategy behind its integration with SIAL?
SIAL and TuttoPizza naturally complement each other. TuttoPizza brings a strong, recognizable and authentic identity that can generate considerable interest among visitors, including through firsthand experiences and tastings. Bringing this format into SIAL’s international network means giving that same authenticity a global platform. The aim is to share not only Italy’s culinary excellence, but also the values of togetherness, family and culture that come with it.
