Victoria's strong footprint in the national food manufacturing and processing industries has prompted organisers of next year's foodpro food manufacturing trade show to head to Melbourne for the first time.
The event's exhibition manager, Peter Petherick, said the state's large food sector had convinced organisers to choose the new venue in expectations the show will attract a whole new audience.
"Victoria accounts for close to half of the country's prepared food products and employs more than 70,000 people within food and beverage manufacturing," Petherick said.
"To have foodpro on your doorstep for the first time is a great opportunity for the whole food manufacturing industry."
The foodpro 2014 show, will span over 20,000 square metres at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 22-25 June next year.
Petherick said the Melbourne show is forecast to draw more than 10,000 visitors, who will come to inspect over 300 suppliers to the country's food and beverage sector.
For the packaging sector, the event will include a dedicated packaging and handling area specialised for the food industry.
This packaging area will complement the event's traditional showcases of food manufacturing and processing technology.
One section, for example, will cover processing equipment for meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables, while a technical area will cover food science and technology, including ingredients, additives and flavourings, laboratory equipment and food safety.
The event will also feature a dedicated plant equipment section showcasing water treatment, doors and flooring, pumps and a complete range of food plant services.
"foodpro 2014 will pave the way for the future of the food manufacturing industry," Petherick said.
"An exhibition of this magnitude only comes along once every three years and should be at the top of the list for every food processing company's marketing plan."
Alongside the main show, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology (AIFST) will hold its 47th Annual Convention.
Petherick said the co-location of foodpro and the convention will allow delegates to more easily network with representatives from the food manufacturing and allied industries - the largest manufacturing sector in Australia.
