25th edition of VIV Europe concluded very successfully
VIV Europe 2026 has officially closed its doors after the 25th edition which fleshed out the theme 'Showroom of the World'. The event, held from 2 to 4 June 2026 at Jaarbeurs Utrecht, welcomed 14,691 professional visitors from 135 countries, including 200 industry leaders, in addition to 461 exhibitors active in the entire animal protein chain.
Global reach
With sectors such as feed and grain technology, feed ingredients, animal health, breeding and hatchery, laboratory services and automation, the fair offered a complete overview of modern animal protein production. Participation covered 20,500 m² of net exhibition space spread over six halls, with exhibiting companies from 37 countries. All this reflects the global reach of the event and its position as the leading international meeting point within the sector. The fair was attended by 30 members of the international press.
This edition also marks the beginning of a new structural phase for VIV Europe. From 2026, the event will take place biennially - a move that underlines its established international position and offers the sector a regular moment to come together, share knowledge and look ahead.
Over three days, the conference programme included 76 sessions and 107 speakers, bringing together scientists, senior executives, policymakers and specialists to discuss the issues shaping the animal protein sector and sustainable food production towards the end of this decade.
Sessions covered topics including the practical application of AI and digital tools in farm and feed management, the commercial and regulatory path to reduced antibiotic use, the geopolitical forces affecting global trade in protein and feed, and the structural adjustments needed for more resilient and less stressful chains.
Knowledge Exchange
Institutions with substantive contributions included Wageningen University, Rabobank, the World's Poultry Science Association, the World Veterinary Poultry Association, in addition to a wide range of international research institutes and industry associations. The well-attended seminars covered topics including AI, precision nutrition and smart feed production. The Cities Leading Food Production programme brought together urban governments and researchers to explore the role of urban food systems in chain resilience.
With the completion of the 25th edition, VIV Europe is now focusing on 2028. The period between editions gives organisers, exhibitors and the wider sector time to deepen collaborations, and develop new knowledge themes. It also ensures that when the doors reopen in Utrecht, the fair actually has something new to offer. VIV Europe 2028 will take place from 13 to 15 June 2028 at Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs.
