IFCN CONFERENCE 2026
The Future of Global Dairy:
Efficiency, innovation & cooperation in a volatile market
27–30 September 2026 / Parma, Italy
This conference is an exclusive event for members of our network. Interested in joining us? Become part of our network and secure your spot.
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IFCN CONFERENCE
THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL DAIRY
Be part of this live only event and join us in Italy
As global dairy markets become more unpredictable, the pressure to stay efficient, innovative, and connected continues to grow. How can dairy businesses remain competitive while dealing with price volatility, shifting demand, and global uncertainty? Join us in Parma, Italy, for a focused conference built around these exact questions.
With its updated structure, IFCN creates a clear space for what matters most: strategy, innovation, and real collaboration across the dairy sector. The Annual Conference brings science and business closer together, creating an environment where ideas move beyond discussion and into practice.
What sets this event apart is its unique position at the intersection of data, research, and real-world decision making. Participants gain direct access to leading minds from academia and industry, take part in formats tailored to current market needs, and benefit from a setting designed for meaningful exchange. When the right people come together in one place, new perspectives emerge and progress becomes tangible.
This is where connections turn into partnerships, and where ideas gain the momentum to shape the future of dairy.
IFCN CONFERENCE | THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL DAIRY
Why this topic is important?
Managing Market Volatility
Dairy businesses face constant shifts in prices, input costs, and trade conditions. Clear strategies and informed decisions are essential to navigate this uncertainty.
Driving Efficiency Under Pressure
Cost pressure continues to increase across the industry. Improving processes and using data effectively helps maintain competitiveness and profitability.
Adapting to Changing Demand
Consumer expectations are evolving quickly. Dairy companies need to respond to new preferences, product trends, and transparency requirements..
Building Stronger Supply Chains
Recent disruptions have exposed weaknesses in global supply chains. Closer coordination and stronger partnerships improve stability and reliability.
Turning Innovation into Practice
New technologies offer strong potential, but their value depends on real implementation. Connecting research with practical application is key to progress..
Strengthening Global Exchange
The dairy sector operates in a connected global system. Sharing knowledge and perspectives across regions supports better decisions and long-term resilience.
IFCN CONFERENCE | THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL DAIRY
Preliminary program – status 05.2026
Program
Sunday 27th September
An immersive experience of the Italian dairy sector on a modern 1900 cow farm, where participants are invited to connect farm-level realities with the broader global context. Through the curated visit and on-site insights, you will discover how regional strengths, quality focus, and efficiency come together to shape competitiveness in today’s market. A memorable opening that blends authenticity, insight, and inspiration.
12:00 - 17:00
Field Trip
19:00 - 22:00
Welcome Evening
Monday 28th September
Experience Parmigiano Reggiano or join IFCN Think Tank
Option 1 – Field Trip (8:00–12:00)
Visit a Parmigiano Reggiano production site and aging facility for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of Italy’s most iconic cheeses. Follow the journey from production to maturation and discover the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation behind this world-renowned product.
Option 2 – IFCN Think Tank (8:00–12:00)
A members-only session for open discussion on IFCN’s future. After a short update on new developments, data services, and upcoming plans, the floor is yours. Share your ideas, challenges, and priorities—your input has shaped IFCN before and will help define its next steps.
14:00-15:30
Opening Remarks & Welcome to Italian Agriculture
IFCN, Kemin, CRPA & others
16:00-17:50
Global Dairy Overview - Market Level
IFCN, Kemin & others
18:05-18:50
Panel: Navigating through Volatility - current Challenges & Opportunities
19:30-23:30
Networking Dinner at Starhotels du Parc
Tuesday 29th September
9:00-9:40
IFCN Global Dairy Overview: Exploring Farm Level Challenges & Opportunities withregional variation in trends
9:40-11:00
IFCN Researcher Session - Global Overview Trough Different Regions
11:45-12:30
Global Initiatives & Farmer Perspective
Global Dairy Platform, Granlatte & others
12:30-13:15
Panel: Bridging Perspectives in Global Dairy: Farmers, Institutions and the Path Forward
Global Dairy Platform, Granlatte, IDF & others
14:45-16:15
Company Case Studies on Efficiency, Cooperation & Innovation
Bayer, smaXtec, Lallemand, Cargill & Alltech
16:30-17:30
Panel: Cooperation or Competition: What Drives Real Innovation and Efficiency in the Dairy Industry?
Bayer, smaXtec, Lallemand, Cargill & Alltech
19:00-23:00
Gala Dinner at Palazzo della Pilotta
Wednesday 30th September
8:00-11:30
KEMIN x IFCN Efficiency Session
12:45-14:00
IFCN Outlook Session
IFCN, HighGround Dairy & Rabobank
14:00-14:45
Panel
14:45-15:00
Conference Closing
Conference venue & recommended hotels
CONFERENCE VENUE
Starhotel du Parc, Parma, Italy
Set in the heart of Parma and overlooking the beautiful Parco Ducale, Starhotel Du Parc combines classic Italian elegance with modern comfort; making it an inspiring setting for this year’s conference.
Housed in a refined Art Nouveau building, the hotel offers stylish, light-filled meeting spaces equipped with modern conference technology, ensuring smooth and professional event experience. A dedicated in-house events team provides tailored support, from planning to execution, so every detail is handled seamlessly.
With elegant rooms for on-site accommodation and inviting spaces such as the Canova Restaurant and bar, the hotel also creates the perfect atmosphere for networking and informal exchange. Its central location allows guests to easily explore Parma’s rich culture and charm, adding an extra dimension to the experience of the event.
All listed hotels are conveniently located and offer a comfortable stay during your visit.
Please note: We have not reserved any room contingents this year, so we recommend booking early.
Recommended Hotels NH Parma
NH Parma
Hotel Novotel
All listed hotels are conveniently located and offer a comfortable stay during your visit.
Please note: We have not reserved any room contingents this year, so we recommend booking early.
Recommended Hotels Palace Maria Luigia
Palace Maria Luigia
All listed hotels are conveniently located and offer a comfortable stay during your visit.
Please note: We have not reserved any room contingents this year, so we recommend booking early.
Localisation
Address
Viale Piacenza, 12/c,
43100 Parma PR, Italy
Phone: +39 0521 292929
How to get there by public transportation?
To reach Starhotels Du Parc in Parma (Viale Piacenza 12/c) by public transport, you can take local buses (TEP) from the city’s main transportation hubs. The hotel is conveniently located just 800 meters from the Parma railway station, offering easy access via walking or a short bus ride.
TEP City Bus Lines
Be part of the IFCN Conference 2026
Join the IFCN Conference – Connect, Learn, and Lead in the Dairy Industry
The IFCN Conference 2025 brought together 125 live participants from more than 28 countries, fostering global collaboration in the dairy sector. In total, over 2,500 dairy professionals engaged in IFCN events throughout the year. Now, it’s your turn!
Be part of the IFCN Conference 2026 and connect with top companies, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world. Gain exclusive insights into the latest trends and challenges shaping the future of the dairy industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and stay ahead in the evolving Dairy World.
IFCN Supporter Conference 2025 | Graz, Austria
Be part of the IFCN Conference
Data and international perspective
Get a better understanding of your national dairy market in a global context and the latest analysis of recent developments in the dairy world.
Grow your expertise
Learn more about this year’s special topic and share your insights among experts from all over the world. We look forward to knowing more about your views and to providing further insights and expert opinions.
Networking and knowledge exchange
Meet other dairy experts from across the globe and be informed about the latest development in the IFCN Network.
125 live Participants from more than 28 countries for IFCN Conference 2024
500 online Participants from more than 80 countries for IFCN Conference 2022
Together we can lead the dairy world into a better future
Profile of participants at IFCN Events
The dairy world comes together – under the organization of IFCN, passionate dairy professionals from all over the world meet to discuss and evaluate the latest developments. To identify the challenges and opportunities of the future and form an active and world-leading network.
Speakers & Panelists
Speakers & Panelists
Alberto Menghi
Research Centre on Animal Production
Eric Meyer
President, Seasoned dairy risk management
Fernando Mazeris
Global Category Manager
Michel de Haan
Project leader at Wageningen Livestock Research
Patrick Gerlich
Head of Central Mediterranean Countries Bayer Crop Science
Hugo Quattrochi
Dairy & Agribusiness Strategy Consultant
IFCN Team
Łukasz Wyrzykowski
Managing Director
Philipp Goetz
Head of Sales & Business Development
Milica Kocić
Lead Product Development
Andrea Lendewig
Head Research & Development
Sofia Iordanidou
Data & Research Network Manager
Tytti Alho
Executive Assistant
Gabriel Sarmiento
Dairy Economist
Abdullah Raffie
Dairy Economist
Katrin Friedrichs
Senior Dairy Economist
Erik Elgersma
Senior Consultant
Get more information about upcoming conference
Are you eager to learn more about our upcoming dairy conference in the Italy or interested in presenting as a company partner? We’re here to help!
Our dedicated team is ready to provide all the details you need, including the conference topics, expert speakers, event schedule, and registration information. Have questions or special requests? Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
This is your chance to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and contribute to advancing dairy research. Reach out today for personalized assistance and make the most of this incredible opportunity!
Contact us now for more information!
IFCN CONFERENCE 2026
The Future of Global Dairy
Efficiency, innovation & cooperation in a volatile market
27–30 September 2026 / Parma, Italy
This conference is an exclusive event for members of our network. Interested in joining us? Become part of our network and secure your spot.