1st IESE-IPADE Food & Beverage Industry Meeting

The food and beverage industry is one of the most dynamic sectors of the Mexican economy and holds a leading position on international markets. In fact, in the 2014 Food and Beverage Attractiveness Index, prepared by IESE Business School and Deloitte, Mexico is ranked 21st out of a total of 186 countries. It is ranked 14th in the world in terms of the volume of food imports and 18th in the world in terms of food exports. The population's growing purchasing power continues to boost per capita consumption as Mexico increases its foreign trade year after year.

The industry is clearly a major driver of the growth and internationalization of the Mexican economy. Mexico’s privileged position with regard to NAFTA and the countries of Central America, and the competitiveness of its companies generate enormous possibilities.

Collaboration and internationalization are two key features in this context of promotion and growth of the food and beverage industry.

Internationalization is an opportunity for growth and a priority for many Mexican companies. But it's no easy matter. It calls for a clear expansion plan, a realistic list of countries targeted for export, and a suitable structure and resources. Being familiar with the rules of international trade is not enough. Internationalization must form part of companies’ strategy and culture.

Collaboration between industry and distribution is essential to complete the value chain and contribute true added value to each stakeholder, including the end consumer. We will review examples of successful international cases involving collaboration between industry and distribution.

Members of the business community and academia agree: in the context of a global economy, internationalization and collaboration are two basic elements, but how can successful plans be drawn up and implemented? How can they be promoted and strengthened? What’s the best way to get started? Are examples of good practices available?

With the theme “Collaboration and internationalization: growth drivers in the food and beverage industry,” the 1st IESE-IPADE Food and Beverage Industry Meeting aims to become a forum for discussion where experts, academics and business people working in the industry can establish a dialogue and share their opinions and comments on these matters. The experience IESE has acquired from organizing 18 editions of the Food and Beverage Industry Meeting in Spain and the prestige of IPADE are sure to make this first Industry Meeting a success.