One of the most awaited events of the year just happened last week — the International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, Georgia. I have always enjoyed going, but for obvious reasons, this year’s was special. After the physical and psychological lockdown, I finally had the chance to meet with colleagues and friends and touch base with the industry. I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. There were lots of exhibitors and attendants, at least, more than I initially expected. Because I must admit that even just one week prior to traveling there, I was in doubt.
While traveling to Atlanta, I thought about the first time I attended the IPPE. It was maybe 1988 or 1989, and since then I have not missed a year, except maybe twice including last year.
The IPPE has been central in my career. It means that I get to see many colleagues and producers from Latin America. It is the quintessential place to go for the Latin American region that I cover. We all want to see and be seen but also see what is new.
The IPPE has evolved quite a bit. Initially it was just poultry — IPE — but then it began to include feeds and meat. This expanded the horizon for all of us. It has been a place to look at innovations and to experience firsthand what is next. The IPPE has also been a wonderful place to meet with clients, to come to agreements and to close deals.
I also remember one of the things that made my jaw drop was the size of the exhibition floor. It has always been a huge place, well organized and with easy access — wide corridors, good signposting and plenty of space.
It is also nice to see how things have evolved, like the internet. I remember the "hotspots" they used to have where you could connect your laptop or devices. Those are gone. There is Wi-Fi everywhere, but we also have our own personal service. And even though the exhibitor guide is still printed, we can now access it with the app, which can also be used to make plans alongside various other functions.
Last but not least comes the wide offer of conferences, including the relevant addition of the Latin American Poultry Summit. I must praise the organizers this year for the program and attendance, which was very good given the circumstances.
What do you think?
