The global footprint of Parmigiano Reggiano PDO continues to expand at a remarkable pace. With exports now reaching 54.8% of total sales—up from 51.5% in the same period last year—the iconic Italian PDO cheese is cementing its status as a cornerstone of the international market. This growth trajectory takes center stage as the Consortium for the Protection of Parmigiano Reggiano returns to SIAL Paris, scheduled from October 17 to 21 at Paris Nord Villepinte.
France remains the top European market
France is confirmed as the primary European destination for the product, holding a 57.2% share of the Italian hard cheese market. Despite a challenging retail landscape, year-to-date sales figures show nearly 3,950 tons sold, generating a turnover of 105.3 million euros. This stability underscores the brand’s enduring resilience and strong consumer preference across the border.
Strategic innovation at SIAL Paris
At SIAL, the Consortium will host a 105-square-meter exhibition space (Hall 7, Stand D083) featuring partners Caseificio Boselli and Cooperativa Casearia Poggioli. The booth will serve as an educational hub, hosting sessions from the Accademia Parmigiano Reggiano, including unique pairings with Champagne that highlight the concept of “the value of time.”
Furthermore, the Consortium will officially unveil its new Retail Trade Toolkit. Developed in collaboration with GlamLab, this professional resource is designed to support international retailers with category management, trade marketing strategies, and advanced in-store storytelling techniques. This initiative aims to further optimize the presence of the world’s most famous PDO product on supermarket shelves globally.
Networking and future growth
The event calendar is packed with high-profile industry engagements, including the “Voyage en Italie” evening by AFIDOP and collaborative networking events with Cibus, Tuttofood, and Anuga. As the Consortium President, Nicola Bertinelli, noted, the strategy to prioritize international markets is no longer just a goal, but a consolidated reality, with over half of total production now destined for consumers outside of Italy.