After day one of ISM, the international Sweets and Biscuit Fair in Cologne I have no handy, condensed update.
I am officially overwhelmed, and if you know me and my ability to take in candy, you’ll understand how huge this thing is.
That building up there is filled with candy. There are 10 halls and 6 of them are taken with candy displays. I went through about two halls on the first day and it took me at least 90 minutes to just get my bearings. I don’t speak German, though I understand it pretty well for the basics and at least can read some of it. But I’m never prepared for the overwhelming crush of a big show like this.
I’m on the look out for trends, but it’s hard to spot because it is such an international fair and the companies and products are so specific. If there’s one trend I can spot it’s that every country makes it’s own version of the same thing. You like Chupa Chups? There are 20 other regional versions of them around the world made by other companies. Same goes for Mentos and of course things like Caramel Wafer Bars.
I’ll leave you with a photo, as I prepare for my second day:
SUPERB
YUMMY 
TASTY 
WORTH IT 
TEMPTING 
PLEASANT 
BENIGN 
UNAPPEALING 
APPALLING 
INEDIBLE 
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Comment by
wietog on 1/31/11 at 1:00 am #
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Comment by
Sebastian on 1/31/11 at 8:49 am #
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Comment by
Julie on 1/31/11 at 5:41 pm #
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Comment by
Michelle F on 1/31/11 at 7:15 pm #
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Comment by
William on 1/31/11 at 7:53 pm #
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Comment by
Kay on 2/01/11 at 6:01 am #
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Comment by
fabio on 2/09/11 at 8:00 am #
Commenting is not available in this channel entry.What fun, Cybele!
Since it sounds like there may be too much to take in, just go with your instincts and enjoy it randomly. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone takes you under their wing to act as a guide…
It would be very interesting to US readers to see if the quality of the candy ingredients in other countries is still high, or if other regions are also using cheaper, fake stuff.
The best part about trade shows is the freebies. Load up and ship it home. Enjoy!
I am so sad that I could not for the ISM. You are a lucky man. I hope you bring home some delicious things.
The next year I visit the ISM, too.
best regards,
Sebastian
It’s possible you have the best job in the history of the universe….
I’m trying to be sympathetic, but all I’m coming up with is envious!....Seriously…living vicariously through you….blog till it HURTS for us poor souls back home! (and thank you!)
Enjoy the Show… Visit us at Hall 02.2 Stand F028a and enjoy the coffee.
What about Milka??? I love to buy it when we travel internationally. I love all the ones I have tried. Do they have new ones?
hello Cybele,
i hope to meet yuo at the next ISM
many thanks for your visit.
Fabio
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