The first edition of the Citrus Forum International took place between June 21 and 23 in Alicante. EDYPRO We had the privilege of participating as platinum sponsors and are proud to have been part of this major industry event. Our initial impressions during the event suggested we were witnessing a top-tier gathering with exceptional success in terms of both participation and organization.
Analyzing the figures afterward confirms we were right. This forum had over 1,450 registered participants from more than 230 companies in the sector, representing over 15 countries. The event also generated a digital reach of over 3,350,000 impressions.
We spoke with Arturo Soler, CEO of Agromarketing Spain, the firm organizing Citrus Forum, to find out what they think of the event and what their plans are for the second edition.
- How did the idea of organizing this event come about?
At Agromarketing Spain, we are always attentive to market needs, striving to add value to every link in the agricultural chain. Following a conversation with a renowned expert in the citrus sector, we decided to organize a global and ambitious event where citrus fruits would take center stage.
- What goals did you set for yourselves when you started it?
Each time we organize an event of this nature, we follow very clear objectives: to provide added value to the agricultural sector, to generate practical and useful knowledge about the most important aspects of the crop in question (citrus in this case), to create a world-class technical program by inviting the best professionals in their respective areas of expertise, and to turn the event into a meeting and networking point for the entire sector, fostering working meetings and new professional relationships.
- What is your assessment of this first edition?
The overall result could not be more positive and enriching.
All objectives have been exceeded. Participating companies have expressed their satisfaction, and the surveys we conducted yielded very positive results among the professionals who attended CITRUS FORUM.
We believe the sector has regrouped and emerged stronger. For several months, the Spanish citrus sector has resonated strongly worldwide, indicating that the work done in this first edition has been excellent.
- Are you already planning the second one? Will there be any new developments?
That's right. Many attendees suggested we organize the second edition in 2023, but after an internal meeting, we've decided that the second edition of CITRUS FORUM will take place in 2024 at a location yet to be determined. This gives researchers and technicians time to develop new products and innovations in the sector. Our aim isn't simply to organize events for the sake of organizing them, but rather to always contribute and enrich the field.
Regarding the second edition, although it's still a ways off, we already have some clear ideas. There will be more time for relaxation and networking, aiming to foster and strengthen new professional relationships.
Another new feature will be the internationalization of the event. To this end, we will continue to focus on bringing in the world's leading experts in citrus farming. It is important that they share with us what is being done in other parts of the world so that we can gain a global perspective on the sector and the solutions to be implemented.
Agromarketing Spain would like to once again thank all the companies and research centers that supported CITRUS FORUM, as well as all the expert speakers and professionals who attended. Thanks to them, we have created a world-class event that will shape the present and future of citrus farming.
