ICBS 2025: Driving synergies in café and food industries

The International Café & Beverage Show (ICBS) 2025 is set to return to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 24 to 26 April 2025, promising a vibrant platform for innovation, talent, and collaboration in the café and beverage industry. Recognised as ASEAN’s premier showcase of artisan food, beverages, and café products, ICBS 2025 invites businesses to capitalise on the booming café culture market, which has seen exponential growth in the region. Malaysia’s café industry alone experienced a remarkable 28% growth last year, generating over USD1 billion (RM4.46 billion) in annual revenue.

With over 600 participating brands, 18,000 attendees, and representation from 55 countries, ICBS 2025 is more than an exhibition—it’s a hub for connecting with key decision-makers, exploring cutting-edge solutions, and staying ahead in one of the most dynamic industries. Products showcased will range from coffee, tea, and pastries to innovative café design solutions and advanced POS payment systems, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the café ecosystem.

Showcasing Exceptional Talent and Creativity

A major highlight of ICBS 2025 is the Malaysia Open Championships, encompassing the Malaysia Open Barista Championship (MOBC), the Malaysia Open Latte Art (MOLAC), and the Malaysia Open Brewers Cup (MOBrC). These competitions will shine a spotlight on exceptional talent and creativity within the industry, offering winners the chance to compete at national and international levels.

Alun Jones, Project Director of Montgomery Asia, expressed his enthusiasm for the championships, stating, “ICBS is more than just an event—it’s a gateway to opportunity for businesses in Malaysia and across the region.”

Building Synergies with MY Food Expo 2025

ICBS 2025 will expand its scope by co-locating with MY Food Expo 2025, further solidifying the synergy between the café and food sectors. This collaboration aligns with Malaysia’s National Agrofood Policy 2.0, promoting sustainability and local food production. Attendees will benefit from a dual focus on both the café and food industries, enhancing opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Jones acknowledged the significance of this partnership, saying, “With MY Food Expo co-located this year, ICBS 2025 highlights the growing synergy between the café and food industries, providing exhibitors a unique platform to broaden their reach and maximise their impact.”

Celebrating Craftsmanship at Roasters Village

ICBS 2025 also introduces the Roasters Village, a dedicated space for boutique coffee roasters to showcase their craftsmanship. This platform offers smaller roasters the opportunity to engage directly with buyers and present their unique blends to a diverse international audience.

“We are delighted to have the Barista Guild Asia as our educational partner for ICBS 2025,” Jones added. “The advancement of the café and beverage industry thrives on continuous learning and curiosity from industry players, consumers, and baristas themselves. This partnership strengthens our commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the sector.”

A Gateway to Opportunity

Supported by the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), ICBS 2025 reflects a collaborative effort to elevate Malaysia’s standing in the global café and beverage market. Jones expressed his gratitude to these stakeholders, highlighting their pivotal role in the event’s success.

“ICBS 2025 is dedicated to connecting and inspiring the café and food sectors, offering a stage for businesses to innovate, collaborate, and expand,” Jones concluded. “We are excited to host a platform that bridges creativity and commerce in this vibrant industry again.”

ICBS 2025 will focus on trade visitors during the first two days and open to the public on the final day. For more information or to explore exhibitor opportunities, visit https://intl-cbs.com.