As the food and restaurant industry faces challenges from the introduction of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, the restructuring of global supply chains, and changing consumer trends, experts will gather to discuss the future of the industry and corporate strategies.
On October 25, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced that it will hold the '2027 Food and Restaurant Industry Outlook' at the COEX Conference Room 401 in Seoul from November 4 to 5. This year marks the 11th iteration of the event, themed 'Our Today and Tomorrow's Table: Where Technology and Values Converge,' aimed at professionals in the food and restaurant sectors, related organizations, academia, and the media.
The event will feature 12 domestic and international food and restaurant experts who will examine industry trends and consumer preferences while discussing corporate management strategies and long-term development directions. Key issues such as the adoption of advanced technologies like AI and robotics, the restructuring of global supply chains, and shifts in consumer preferences will be addressed.
On the first day, discussions will focus on global food market trends and the future of K-Food. Michelle Lee, head of marketing for Asia-Pacific at the Japanese food company Glico, will deliver a keynote speech on global food branding strategies. Experts in consumer trends, including Professor Moon Jeong-hoon from Seoul National University, will analyze global food consumption trends and market changes.
The challenges for the sustainable growth of K-Food will also be discussed, including the European Union's packaging regulations (PPWR) and how domestic exporters can respond. Additionally, strategies for introducing AI-based smart manufacturing technologies into the food industry will be presented.
The second day will continue discussions on changes in dining consumption patterns and corporate survival strategies. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the closure rate in the restaurant industry is projected to be 15.1% in 2025, higher than the 8.64% closure rate in other industries. Amid declining profitability and increasing management burdens, the event will analyze consumer dining choices and values while exploring ways to secure differentiated competitiveness.
The event will also examine market structural changes due to the entry of foreign restaurant brands into the domestic market. Chef Sam Kim and other industry experts will share insights on sustainable restaurant brand management and propose ways to enhance management efficiency and competitiveness using new technologies like AI and data.
Those wishing to participate in the event can pre-register on the official website. Pre-registered attendees will receive complimentary access to 'Food Week Korea,' taking place at COEX during the event.
Jung Kyung-seok, Director of Food Industry Policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, stated, 'The food and restaurant industry is facing both crises from declining demand due to demographic changes like low birth rates and aging populations, and increasing external uncertainties, as well as opportunities from the adoption of advanced technologies like food tech. We hope this event will serve as a catalyst for related companies to proactively respond to changes and establish growth strategies.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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