Victoria’s Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Colin Brooks, will officially open foodpro 2026, with the four-day event set to showcase manufacturing technologies, automation and innovation across the food and beverage sector.
According to foodpro, Brooks will deliver an opening speech and lead a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) main entrance on 26 July, marking the start of the exhibition, which runs until 29 July.
Returning after a three-year break, foodpro 2026 is expected to bring together more than 450 exhibitors and over 9,000 industry professionals from across the food and beverage manufacturing supply chain.
Foodpro said the minister’s involvement reflects the Victorian Government’s support for advanced manufacturing, innovation and skills development in the state’s food and beverage industry.
Brooks, who has served as Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing and Minister for Skills and TAFE since December 2024, oversees portfolios aligned with the event’s focus on workforce capability, automation, digital technologies and sustainable production.
Foodpro Event Director Louise Brooks said the event was pleased to welcome the minister to officially launch the exhibition.
“We’re delighted to welcome the Hon. Colin Brooks MP to officially open foodpro 2026. Minister Brooks is responsible for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Defence Industry and Skills and TAFE,” she said.
“Food manufacturing is one of Victoria’s largest advanced manufacturing sectors, and it’s a privilege to have a Minister whose portfolios span industry, skills and training open the show. We look forward to welcoming the industry to Melbourne for what will be an outstanding few days.”
According to foodpro, the exhibition will feature processing equipment, packaging solutions, ingredients, food science and sustainable manufacturing technologies across eight industry segments.
The event will also host several co-located activities, including the Australian Institute of Food Science & Technology (AIFST) Convention, Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) training sessions, the PIDA Awards Gala Dinner and the Industry Connect Evening networking function at Melbourne Public on the Yarra River.
Foodpro 2026 will be held from 26 to 29 July at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Attendance is free for industry professionals, with registrations available through the event website.
