The 2023 edition of Natexpo took place at Paris Nord Villepinte from October 22nd to 24th. The event, which is 100% dedicated to the organic sector, was seen as a “rebound event” by the organizers, given the “economic and structural challenges facing the organic sector.”
©Natexpo
New dynamic?
2,500 exhibitors and brands and 18,000 professionals were expected this year. Natexpo 2023 eventually brought together 11,056 professionals over 3 days, with more than 2,000 exhibitors and brands present on 870 booths, 34% of them new exhibitors (compared to 10,177 visitors for the 2022 edition in Lyon). Food remains the show's major sector, accounting for 64% of the exhibitors. Cosmetics, Natexpo's second-largest sector, accounted for 12% of exhibitors.
This year, the event dedicated to organic products decided to “innovate and evolve,” with the declared goal of revitalizing a sector in difficulty. The novelties included the “P'tits nouveaux” trail, the “Village of Experts” and the space dedicated to EAP (Local Alternative Grocery Shops). Over the course of three days, exhibitors were also able to take part in some 200 conferences, as well as themed forums, business meetings and international encounters.
Looking back, the organizers speak of “a sector focused on the future.” Indeed, the exhibitors present (34% were new this year) demonstrated their resourcefulness in their effort to renew themselves: product innovation, new branding, revised strategies, all ideas to try and win back market shares and gain consumers back. According to Florence Roublot, director of Natexpo, “the quality and attendance of the French and international professionals, and their enthusiasm for innovations, prove that this new edition of Natexpo was absolutely on target.”
Mixed reviews from exhibitors
Many exhibitors expressed their disappointment, speaking of a “gloomy atmosphere, perhaps because of the school vacations in France.” However, many others praised the work of the organizers and exhibitors, “who clearly try to innovate and move forward.” A dynamic of reconstruction! It is no longer the organic craze it once was, but there is a real desire to carry on and breathe new life into things. The sector is changing for the better, and there is a real commitment on the part of the operators.”
What about international markets?
This year’s event was marked by a strong international presence, with 14% of the visitors coming from abroad. International exhibitors accounted for 25% of the event, with 23 foreign countries represented this year. Alongside Italy, Belgium and Germany (the main exhibiting countries) and the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria and Portugal, international exhibitors also came from India, Taiwan, Madagascar, the USA and Tunisia. Two new pavilions also made their debut this year: Spain with Ecovalia (the professional association for Spanish organic production) and Ireland with BORD BIA (in charge of promoting and developing Irish agricultural products).
Natexpo will return to Lyon next September.