ConTech 2026

The Australian Industry Group – Confectionery Sector’s annual conference is marking its 30th anniversary at its 2026 event on 2 June, at the MCG in Melbourne.

For three decades, ConTech has united industry professionals to explore innovation, emerging technologies, and the future of food.

Australia’s premier confectionery conference brings together leaders from across the industry including:

  • Food scientists and technologists;
  • nutrition and regulatory specialists;
  • sales and marketing professionals;
  • corporate affairs experts;
  • ingredient and packaging suppliers;
  • machinery innovators; and
  • the next generation of talent shaping the future of confectionery.

This year’s principal sponsor is Manildra Group.

Alongside a dynamic trade exhibition, speakers will explore:

  • Industry outlook and market intelligence;
  • Technology’s expanding role in confectionery;
  • Cocoa and ingredient innovation;
  • Functional ingredients and formulation science;
  • Sustainability and circular packaging solutions;
  • Health, nutrition and modern dietary expectations; and
  • Retail challenges and opportunities.  

Members can log in to use their code to claim your the early bird discount for registration before 5 May 2026.

Register here.

This year’s networking drinks and dinner events will tie into the celebratory theme – Let’s celebrate! – with guests encouraged to bring a touch of festive flair. Celebrate with colleagues, customers and clients, and book a table for 10 for a 10 per cent discount.

Upcoming Events Submit an Event

May

Food & Drink Business presents The Hive Awards, an annual celebration of innovation and excellence in the Australian food and beverage manufacturing sector.

Bringing together chefs, operators, buyers, suppliers, and innovators for three jam-packed days of action across industry trade shows, culinary competitions, free conference streams, awards, and the best hospitality party of the year.

THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 is taking place in Bangkok from 26-30 May at Impact Muang Thong Thani, scaling up to 140,000+ square metres with a new hall added for one of the region’s largest food and beverage trade shows.

Melbourne’s tastiest day out will be back in 2026! Watch top chefs and your favourite food heroes live on stage as they cook up a storm and meet the makers to sip, sample and shop their produce.

June

Australian Food Science and Technology Week will take place from 1-7 June 2026, aiming to raise awareness of food science and technology and highlight the vital role food scientists and technologists play in shaping a safe, sustainable, and innovative agrifood future.

Sydney’s tastiest day out will be back in 2026! From the hottest chilli sauces to the smelliest cheese, the Margaret River to the Barossa, we scour the nation to find the most delicious and exciting products around and bring them all together in one place.

Rockwell Automation hosts three days of learning, networking, and innovation at ROKLive 2026 in Adelaide, featuring over 100 sessions including hands-on labs, technical deep dives, and presentations.

The Food Taipei Mega Show 2026 brings together five major exhibitions under one roof: Food Taipei, Foodtech Taipei, Bio/Pharmatech Taiwan, Taipei Pack, and Taiwan Horeca.

July

The Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB) is celebrating 25 years of F&B trade connections in 2026, continuing to bridge the gap between international innovation and regional demand.

Welcome to Australia’s favourite destination for food and wine experiences. The Good Food & Wine Show returns to Perth for 2026, taking place at PCEC from 17-19 July. Are you ready for the ultimate foodie day out?