The 2025 SAAFFI seminar explores sustainable 4IR solutions, uniting global and local industry leaders in the flavour and fragrance sectors.
From steam power to the digital era, each industrial revolution has transformed society. The first industrial revolution marked the transition from hand production methods to machines fuelled by steam and water-power. It set the stage for the modern industrialised world. The second Industrial Revolution, powered by electricity and innovation, brought about mass production and the birth of the assembly line, dramatically reshaping industries and society. The third Industrial Revolution, or the digital revolution, ushered in the era of computers and the Internet, transforming how we communicate, work and live.
In the Fourth Industrial Revolution, technology transcends traditional boundaries integrating digital, physical and biological worlds. The 4IR is transforming industries and enhancing daily life.
And even though the opportunities are immense, they also present challenges requiring global cooperation, ethical considerations, and a commitment to inclusive growth. As we navigate the fourth Industrial Revolution, our collective action will shape an inclusive, sustainable future.
The 2025 annual SAAFFI seminar is themed:
GLOCALISED AROMATIC FUTURES – Sustainable 4IR Solutions for a Thriving Flavour & Fragrance Sector.
The full-day programme features an impressive line-up of international and local speakers, a hands-on workshop, an inspiring motivational presentation, and a networking cocktail event. This year’s programme aims to demonstrate that 4IR is not just about technology; it is about how we envision and build our shared future, specifically in the flavour, fragrance and related sectors.
- Greenshoots: A glimpse of sustainable development 5 minutes – 50 years ahead for the Southern African Development Region
- A practical view of the IFRA/IOFI Sustainability Carter
- Blending traditional wisdom with modern research to shape the future.
- Flavour Trends – Global and local developments to watch
- Fragrance Trends – International factors influencing Fragrance Trends?
- Understanding the Complexities of biodiversity-based value chains
- International, Regional and National Policies to get the Sector moving and to keep it Growing!
A Student Panel drawn from local academic institutions, will highlight some of the exciting research being carried out by our very own and from our very own industry.
The hands-on Workshop will invite participants to explore the concept of Triangles in the creation and application of Flavours and Fragrances. This session is sure to leave all participants informed, motivated and challenged (and even a little entertained!)
The face-to-face full-day event will be held on Wednesday 19th March 2025 at The Canvas @ Riversands, Fourways, Midrand.
There are opportunities to win generous prizes, with numerous networking opportunities with exactly the right “crowd”.
For the last 23 years, the annual SAAFFI seminar has every year, attracted around 200 key personnel drawn from a wide range of companies both in the flavour & fragrance sector, and from FMCG companies (who are users of flavours and fragrances), as well as academics, consultants, regulators, raw material suppliers and anyone interested in the fascinating world of fragrance and flavours. The day offers a valuable learning and networking opportunity to people in management, sales, marketing, technical, procurement, R&D, applications, operations, and tertiary level students.
The SAAFFI 23rd annual seminar is an industry event for every serious flavour, fragrance, food, beverage, cosmetic and FMCG professional – simultaneously offering a day of fun, insight and inspiration! There is even the promise of a jam-packed goody bag for each delegate!
Sponsorship opportunities are offered to those organisations who want their name associated with this prestigious event. Full credit and exposure will be given to all sponsors in all seminar communication.
SAAFFI’s executive director, Sharon Bolel summed up the event: “The energetic, inspired organising committee has been in putting together a programme which incorporates world-class speakers, an interactive workshop (for which the SAAFFI seminar has become renowned!) and brilliant opportunities for expanding one’s network.”
SAAFFI, the South African Association of the Flavour & Fragrance Industry, represents all aspects of the flavour, fragrance and allied industries. It unites the industry across non-competitive issues, freeing up individual organisations to grow their business.
