The European food industry is undergoing a powerful transformation, driven by digital innovation and the urgent need for sustainability. At the heart of this shift is HIGHFIVE, a 36-month Europe-wide project that has empowered SMEs and clusters to adopt digital and green technologies — and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
Now, as the project concludes, stakeholders from across Europe are invited to the SMART FOOD FACTORY Final Event, where industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers will gather to explore breakthroughs, forge partnerships, and accelerate the transition to a more resilient and future-ready food industry.
“With this event we’re closing a chapter, not the story. The real impact of HIGHFIVE begins now, as its results spread and scale across Europe.”
— Ines Colle, Innovation Manager, Flanders’ FOOD
A Project That Delivered Tangible Impact
As a key outcome of the HIGHFIVE project, innovative SMEs from across Europe will take the stage to showcase how their digital and sustainable technologies are transforming food production. During the event, selected startups will deliver live pitches and demonstrations, offering a firsthand look at the real-world impact of their solutions.
Examples include the implementation of AI-driven systems that reduced energy consumption by 7% and improved production planning accuracy by 15% in dairy processing. Other solutions have enhanced demand forecasting by 25%, resulting in lower storage costs and shorter lead times.
Computer vision technologies have been used to reduce packaging defects by 30%, contributing to a 10% increase in turnover. Advanced analytics have led to significant efficiency gains, including a 5% reduction in water waste, 8% less material loss, and a 40% decrease in inspection times across various food production stages.
In addition, mobile robotics have helped address labour shortages and hygiene challenges, automating tasks such as bread handling and dosing, and increasing productivity by 30%.
These success stories not only highlight the project's tangible impact but also offer a compelling blueprint for scaling innovation across the European food sector.
Join Us for the HIGHFIVE Final Event
Dates: 30 September – 1 October 2025
Locations: Leuven & Brussels, Belgium
Celebrate the achievements of HIGHFIVE, discover actionable insights, and help shape the next chapter of food industry innovation.
Secure your place today — and join us in driving sustainable growth and digital transformation.
Why Attend?
- Stay Ahead of the Curve: Learn about cutting-edge digital and sustainable trends reshaping food production.
- Help Shape the Future: Engage directly with EU policymakers and contribute to effective, sustainable policy.
- Connect Across Sectors: Network with SMEs, industry experts, and decision-makers from across Europe.
- See Innovation in Action: Experience live demos and real-life case studies from pioneering SMEs.
- Take Home Practical Strategies: Join interactive sessions and workshops designed to deliver immediate value.
Practical Information
30 September – imec, Leuven: Innovation showcases and technology demonstrations
1 October – Thon Hotel Brussels City Centre: Policy dialogues, networking, and strategic insights
Be part of the community shaping the future of European food.
Explore the agenda here.