Cesena Mayor Paolo Lucchi (left) and Renzo Piraccini (right).
The fair's turnover went from €3 million in 2014, to €4.5 in 2016, and is expected to reach €6 million in 2018. The 2017 edition may occur at the same time as another fair in Milan, but Piraccini was clear: "I'm sorry about the discord, but I'm actually quite sure they will not be able to organise it. It is not possible to improvise a fair with press releases."
Cesena Fiera is slowly becoming partially privatised. The intention is to sell 60% of the shares to private investors (1 to 20% max packets). Other fairs should do the same, as they are often blocked by rigid public management. "So far, 16 companies have already showed their interest, and that would be enough to reach 60%." "If everything goes as expected, the Municipality should make €1.6 million from the sale," explains Cesena Mayor, Paolo Lucchi.
Six of the companies that showed their interest are from the fresh produce world. "Though they are not single companies, but rather organisations."
The 2017 edition will take place in Rimini between 10th and 12th May. Piraccini stressed the role of China and Basilicata as a partner Region. "I feel the 9th of May is also important, as we have organised 'Macfrut in fields'. In addition, there is a new hall dedicated to processing companies."
The cost of renovating the Cesena facility was €3.4 million. Modular spaces have been created to host company conventions or events. A wing has also been made available to Gambero Rosso for one of its national centres.