Analysis: Barry Callebaut’s Planned ISM Return Signals Ingredients Are Becoming The Industry’s New Innovation Battleground

If Barry Callebaut returns to Cologne in 2027 as expected, it will represent far more than the reappearance of one of the confectionery industry’s biggest names. It would underline a much larger shift taking place across the global sweets and snacks sector – one in which ingredients, functionality, and supply-chain innovation are becoming as important as finished consumer products.

According to organisers Koelnmesse, Barry Callebaut is among the companies planning to exhibit at ISM Ingredients 2027, the specialist ingredients exhibition that will once again run alongside ISM and ISM Manufacturing from 31 January to 3 February 2027.

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During a media briefing last month, CocoaRadar asked Barry Callebaut CEO Hein Schumacher whether the company intended to return to the ISM trade fair after several years away. Schumacher declined to comment on the company’s exhibition plans at that time.

While Barry Callebaut has yet to publish an official announcement confirming its participation, the organiser’s exhibitor information and reports across several international trade publications indicate that the world’s largest chocolate and cocoa ingredients manufacturer is planning a return to the Cologne exhibition halls in 2027.

For long-time ISM visitors, that would mark a notable homecoming.