Interview with Matthias Balz, Director of INTERNORGA

As the Director of INTERNORGA, Matthias Balz is a visionary leader with a keen focus on emerging trends such as alternative proteins, sustainable packaging, and advanced automation technologies. Matthias drives INTERNORGA’s mission to be the premier platform for showcasing groundbreaking solutions and fostering industry collaboration. Under his leadership, INTERNORGA has become a hub for trendsetting ideas, offering specialised areas like the AI CENTER and Future Food zone, as well as dynamic networking events and thought-provoking panel discussions. Matthias is dedicated to empowering businesses with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving industry landscape.

1. “Where Trends Take Off” is the theme for this year’s INTERNORGA. What key trends in the hospitality and hotel sectors will be showcased at INTERNORGA 2025?

The theme “Where Trends Take Off” perfectly encapsulates INTERNORGA’s role as a platform for innovation. In 2025, I see three key trends clearly emerging in the hospitality and hotel industries:

Alternative Proteins:

The new Future Food area at INTERNORGA will spotlight alternative proteins such as plant-based, fermented, or cell-based products. Exhibitors will present their pioneering solutions across the entire value chain. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with these companies and learn about the latest developments.

Sustainability in Packaging & Delivery:

For over three years, the Packaging & Delivery area has focused on sustainable packaging solutions and logistics systems. This includes biodegradable materials, reusable systems, and smart packaging that perfectly balance ecological and economic demands.

Automation and Digitalisation:

Given the labour shortages, digital solutions are crucial for boosting efficiency. Smart systems and robotic processes, particularly in kitchen technology and digital applications, will demonstrate new approaches to quality assurance and cost reduction.

What makes INTERNORGA special is not only the diversity of innovations but also the opportunity to network and benefit from an inspiring program. Stages like the OPEN STAGE and the International Foodservice Forum on March 13, 2025, offer space for exciting presentations, panel discussions, and the showcase of groundbreaking ideas. Networking events like the OFF THE RECORD afterwork lounge encourage exchanges with industry experts and peers. This makes INTERNORGA a showcase for trends and a central platform for personal dialogue and building valuable connections.

2. How are digital solutions evolving for the hospitality and hotel sectors, and what role do automation and AI play in optimizing operations? What can visitors expect to find at INTERNORGA in this regard?

Digital solutions in hospitality are evolving rapidly, opening up entirely new possibilities for more efficient, sustainable, and customer-focused operations. Automation and AI are playing a crucial role here. For example, AI-powered systems help optimise inventory management, staff scheduling, and guest data analysis, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings to customer needs. Automated processes such as robotic kitchen technologies or self-ordering systems ease the workload for employees, enabling them to focus on creative and service-oriented tasks.

At INTERNORGA 2025, these developments will be highlighted by exhibitors and prominently discussed on our stages and in our conferences. Our top-notch presentations and panel discussions will explore how automation and AI will shape the industry’s future.

A dedicated AI CENTER, presented for the third time in Hall A3, will showcase groundbreaking AI technologies and their innovative applications in hospitality and hotel management.

3. What innovations in kitchen technology will be highlighted at INTERNORGA, and how do they contribute to efficiency improvements in hospitality?

At INTERNORGA 2025, innovations in kitchen technology will be a key focus, significantly improving efficiency, sustainability, and quality in the hospitality sector. Key technologies include intelligent cooking systems that autonomously adjust cooking times and temperatures, as well as multifunctional devices that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously.

The use of digital control systems that connect devices plays a significant role. These systems optimise workflows, minimise errors and allow for more efficient resource use. Sustainable solutions like energy-saving ovens or water-reducing dishwashing systems will also be a major focus.

INTERNORGA provides visitors with the chance to experience these innovations firsthand. Whether on the exhibition floor or through direct interactions with manufacturers, visitors gain practical insights into how modern kitchen technology can address industry challenges and make hospitality more future-proof.

4. How can modern kitchen technologies help restaurateurs achieve sustainability goals such as energy efficiency and waste reduction? What will visitors learn about this at INTERNORGA?

Modern kitchen technologies are central to achieving sustainability goals. They enable more efficient use of resources, energy savings, and waste reduction. For example, intelligent devices that automatically adjust energy consumption or systems that minimise product waste through precise cooking are particularly effective. Additionally, technologies like connected kitchen systems that analyse operational data in real-time allow for optimal planning and resource management.

At INTERNORGA 2025, visitors will learn exactly how these technologies work in practice and what benefits they offer. We not only showcase innovative products from leading manufacturers but also provide insights into real-world applications and best practices. Our goal is to demonstrate how restaurateurs can operate more sustainably and simultaneously reduce their operating costs with modern kitchen technology.5

5. What role does INTERNORGA play as a platform for discussing current challenges and opportunities in the hospitality industry?

I believe INTERNORGA plays a central role in this regard. It is the place where the entire industry comes together to develop solutions, share knowledge, and set new impulses. Especially in times when issues like labour shortages, rising costs and sustainability requirements pose significant challenges to the hospitality sector, INTERNORGA provides a valuable platform for exchange and learning.

We bring together experts, decision-makers, and visionaries from all areas of the industry – on our stages, in our conferences, and through personal interactions at the trade fair. Here, innovative ideas can be discussed, successful case studies presented, and new partnerships formed. INTERNORGA is where real solutions and future perspectives for the entire industry take shape.