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Highlights from Puratos at the World Economic Forum in Davos

23 Jan 2025

R&D
News
Planet

The World Economic Forum in Davos is a unique platform where global leaders come together to address critical issues and explore solutions for a better future. This year, we at Puratos had the honor of participating at the Belgium House, where we shared our vision for a sustainable and innovative food system.

Embracing Open Innovation for a Sustainable Future

At Puratos, we believe that in a constantly changing world filled with uncertainty, continuous innovation remains essential. Our Chief R&D Officer, Paul Baisier, emphasized this during his panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He highlighted the importance of open innovation, where research and development extend beyond the confines of internal labs and R&D teams to include collaboration with external partners.

Paul stated, "Even in challenging economic times, we continue to believe in the power of collaboration. An open innovation mindset is crucial."

At Puratos, we invest in a diverse and international set of talents centralized in our Belgian-based research headquarters. We ensure our partnerships are well-diversified and secure, enabling us to progress with the best partners in the field. By partnering with universities, start-ups, and suppliers, we leverage diverse perspectives and expertise to drive meaningful progress. Building a network of trusted innovators allows us to develop solutions that address immediate needs and contribute to a sustainable future.

Our Vision for a Future-Forward Food System

Paul elaborated on how our innovative, sustainable, and healthier solutions have proven to be more resilient and in demand with our customers. He emphasized that investing in these areas is not seen as a cost but as an investment in the future. "Innovation is crucial because it allows us to add value to the food industry and to people's lives, to stay ahead of market trends, meet the evolving needs of our customers, and continuously improve the quality, sustainability, and nutritional value of our products," Paul explained.

He also stressed the importance of sustainability, stating, "We believe that we have a responsibility to protect our planet for future generations. By prioritizing both innovation and sustainability, we ensure that Puratos is contributing to a better future for our planet and its people."

Bringing Bakery and Chocolate Delights to Switzerland

Together with Petra Just, General Manager of Puratos Switzerland, our team brought a taste of Belgium to Davos. We were delighted to offer guests of the Belgium House at the World Economic Forum freshly baked, fully plant-based products made by our Puratos Technical Advisors in Switzerland, and a selection of chocolates and pralines crafted by our esteemed Belcolade chocolatiers in Belgium. These treats, made with sustainably sourced cocoa through our Cacao-Trace program, reflected our commitment to ethical practices.

Key Highlights from the World Economic Forum

The panel discussion featured esteemed industry leaders, including Dirk Jacobs (Director General, FoodDrinkEurope), Cybelle-Royce Buyck (VP, Legal & Corporate Affairs Europe, AB InBev), Cedric Pauwels (Group Marketing, Communications & Public Affairs Director, Greenyard), Gil Dumarey (Managing Partner, We’re Smart World), and Anthony Botelberge (Honorary President of the Federation of the Belgian Food Industry). The discussion emphasized several key topics:

  • Cross-Industry Collaboration: The vital role of partnerships between startups, universities, and academics in driving innovation within the food industry.
  • Digitalization: The importance of investing in infrastructure, data management, and the smart use of AI to enhance the food industry's capabilities.
  • Health and Sustainability: Ensuring that innovation focuses on health and sustainability while maintaining the delicious and indulgent quality of products.
  • Accessibility: Making sure that innovative products remain affordable and accessible to consumers.

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

Our participation at the World Economic Forum underscores our dedication to leading the way in sustainable food innovation worldwide. By fostering open innovation and embracing digital advancements, we aim to pave the way for a future where consumers can enjoy high-quality, sustainable products and our customers—bakers, patissiers, chocolatiers, and all food players—can thrive.