The count-down has started to the 23rd annual SAAFFI seminar! This year, the seminar is themed GLOCALISED AROMATIC FUTURES – Sustainable 4IR Solutions for a Thriving Flavour & Fragrance Sector.
The term ‘fourth industrial revolution’ (4IR), was coined by Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum. Emerging technologies like AI, the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics have begun to merge with the physical, digital and biological worlds, revolutionising economies, industries and societies in the process. Sustainability in each of these areas is now a key consideration.
From steam power to the digital era, each industrial revolution has transformed society. The first industrial revolution marked the transition from hand production methods to machines fueled by steam and water-power. It set the stage for the modern industrialised world. The second industrial revolution, powered by electricity and innovation, brought about mass production and the birth of the assembly line, drastically reshaping industries and society. The third or digital revolution, ushered in the era of computers and the Internet, transforming how we communicate, work and live.
In the 4IR, technology transcends traditional boundaries integrating digital, physical and biological worlds. This industrial revolution is transforming industries and enhancing daily life. Even though the opportunities are immense, they also present challenges requiring global cooperation, ethical considerations, and a commitment to inclusive growth. As we navigate 4IR, our collective action will be necessary to shape an inclusive, sustainable future.
More than technology in fragrances & flavours
The 2025 SAAFFI seminar programme is inspired by 4IR. It features an impressive line-up of international and local speakers, a hands-on workshop, an inspiring motivational presentation, and a networking cocktail event. This year’s programme aims to demonstrate that 4IR is not just about technology; it is about how we envision and build our shared future, specifically in the flavour, fragrance and related sectors.
International and local speakers will address topics including:
- Greenshoots: A glimpse of sustainable development 5 minutes – 50 years ahead for the Southern African Development Region
- A practical view of the IFRA/IOFI Sustainability Charter
- Blending traditional wisdom with modern research to shape the future.
- Flavour Trends – Global and local developments to watch
- Fragrance Trends – International factors influencing fragrance trends?
- Understanding the complexities of biodiversity-based value chains
- International, Regional and National Policies to get the sector moving and to keep it growing!
Reasons to attend
A Student Panel drawn from local academic institutions, will highlight some of the exciting research being carried out by the industry’s youth.
The hands-on workshop will invite participants to explore the concept of triangles in the creation and application of Flavours and Fragrances. This session inform, motivate, challenge and entertain participants.
The face-to-face full-day event will be held on Wednesday 19 March 2025 at The Canvas @ Riversands, Fourways.
There are opportunities to win generous prizes, with numerous networking opportunities.
Committed to uniting the industry
For the last 23 years, the annual SAAFFI seminar has every year, attracted around 200 key personnel drawn from a wide range of companies both in the flavour & fragrance sector, and from FMCG companies (who are users of flavours and fragrances), as well as academics, consultants, regulators, raw material suppliers and anyone interested in the fascinating world of fragrance and flavours. The day offers a valuable learning and networking opportunity to people in management, sales, marketing, technical, procurement, R&D, applications, operations, and tertiary level students.
The SAAFFI 23rd annual seminar is an industry event for every serious flavour, fragrance, food, beverage, cosmetic and FMCG professional – simultaneously offering a day of fun, insight and inspiration! There is even the promise of a jam-packed goody bag for each delegate!
Sponsorship opportunities are offered to those organisations who want their name associated with this prestigious event. Full credit and exposure will be given to all sponsors in all seminar communication.
SAAFFI’s executive director, Sharon Bolel sums up the event: “The energetic, inspired organising committee has been putting together a programme that incorporates world-class speakers, an interactive workshop (for which the SAAFFI seminar has become renowned) and brilliant opportunities for expanding one’s network.”
SAAFFI, the South African Association of the Flavour & Fragrance Industry, represents all aspects of the flavour, fragrance and allied industries. It unites the industry across non-competitive issues, freeing up individual organisations to grow their business.
Click here to watch a video of the highlights of the 2024 seminar. For more information go to https://saaffi.co.za/events/.
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