THE REAL COST OF CHOCOLATE: NAVIGATING PRICE, PRODUCTION AND PORTFOLIO CHANGE

04 Nov 2026
Foodtech Summit
Gulfood Manufacturing
• Product innovation: Emerging flavour and format trends in the chocolate market
• Protecting margins vs protecting brand equity: How should manufacturers navigate persistent cocoa and sugar price swings?
• How are functional ingredients transforming the chocolate market?
• Which consumer generation is driving growth and why?
• How are manufacturers building climate change resilience into cocoa sourcing to secure long-terms supply stability?
• Amid supply chain disruptions and cost pressures, how are manufacturers restructuring the production and portfolio mixes?
Speakers
Seda Solmaz
Seda Solmaz, CEO & Founder - Idea Atelier
Dr. Ki Won Um
Dr. Ki Won Um, Vice President Taste – RD&A APMEA - Kerry
Mahendra M Barve
Mahendra M Barve, Vice President, New Product Development, Chocolates and Confectionery - ITC Food Division
Zeyneb Larabi
Zeyneb Larabi, Partner, Lab Hub Studios and Global Travel Retail Director & Advisor - Lab Hub Studios / VALRHONA