A world of frozen possibilities

A world of frozen possibilities | Daily Tribune

Something cool is about to roll in as the Philippines hosts its first-ever event dedicated entirely to frozen desserts: ICEGEX — the International Ice Cream & Gelato Expo, happening on 24 to 26 October at the World Trade Center, Manila.

As the only specialized trade event of its kind in the country, ICEGEX 2025 invites entrepreneurs, connoisseurs and innovators from around the world to exhibit, collaborate and celebrate everything ice cream, gelato and beyond.

From immersive tasting zones to live demonstrations, ICEGEX will feature an expansive exhibition hall, expert-led seminar sessions, exciting live demos and even a first-of-its-kind ice cream competition, entitled SORBESTES.

Event-goers can expect exclusive sessions such as Heritage Halo-Halo Reimagined, a live demo by chef Myke ‘Tatung’ Sarthou; The Smart Scoop: Technology, Personalization, and the Digital Future of Ice Cream, a seminar by chef Nouel Catis; From Ingredients to Packaging: The Supply Chain of Frozen Desserts, a business talk by Chimney Cone; Ice Cream Pairings with Pastries, a live demo by chef Emily Peralta; The Business of Ice Cream: Building a Frozen Dessert Brand, a workshop by Daniel Baker PH; and more.

ICEGEX aims to draw trade and consumer visitors eager to explore the latest in flavor, technique and business opportunities. From gelato and soft-serve innovators like Araro Gelato and Miruku to equipment and labeling suppliers like Smartpack and Asiatrends, exhibitors are invited from all key sectors of the frozen dessert ecosystem.

These include ice cream and gelato manufacturers showcasing their products to retail and foodservice buyers, as well as suppliers of premium dairy and plant-based ingredients, sweeteners, flavor enhancers, chocolate and pralines, and confectionery that pair with frozen treats.

Businesses specializing in machinery, production and freezing equipment, sustainable packaging, digital scales and weighing systems are encouraged to participate, along with technology solution providers offering POS systems, supply chain tools and business platforms for franchise operations.

Supported by industry associations such as the Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP), the Hotel and Restaurant Chefs’ Association of the Philippines (HRCAP), the Food Caterers Association of the Philippines (FCAP), the Association of Local Artisan Food and Other Producers of the Philippines (ALAFOP) and the Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), ICEGEX offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to reach a highly targeted and relevant audience.

The event is expected to attract retailers, supermarkets and distributors searching for new frozen dessert products, HORECA professionals looking to upgrade their menu offerings, pastry chefs and artisans exploring new techniques, and food entrepreneurs and investors scouting their next big venture.

Research and development teams will find inspiration for flavor development and product enhancement, while frozen dessert enthusiasts and trendsetters will enjoy the immersive, educational and indulgent experiences the event has to offer.