Michael P. Smithing

The Portfolio Group's Agrofood 2026 Conference will address the most topical issues affecting the domestic food industry in a thematic way. The event's explicit aim is to provide industry players with relevant information that can clearly contribute to the effectiveness of their business activities. In addition, the event will be useful for farmers supplying food businesses, financial institutions and service providers serving the industry, as well as the food trade sector linked to the food industry. The conference will review the investment, support, regulatory, market and financing issues that shape the food industry and, in addition to presenting the opportunities and trends for the year, will provide longer-term forecasts to help industry players make informed strategic decisions that will lead to success. With the Agrofood Conference, the Portfolio Group aims to provide the highest quality and most comprehensive information possible to businesses interested in the industry. Thus, with a focus on the food industry approach, the event can be a useful event for the entire food sector and the sectors and industries that serve processing companies, as well as a good opportunity for professional networking and networking.

Conscious energy management is no longer just an option, but an obligation. Whether a company is small, medium or large, its electricity and gas procurement remains a cornerstone of its competitiveness - but it is far from the only one. Those who do not develop a well thought-out energy strategy will inevitably be at a disadvantage. But the how is more complex than ever: energy is one of the fastest-changing areas, where business practices have to be rethought almost year on year. Corporate energy management has become a strategic issue. It is not just about how to reduce costs, but also about how to build a more sustainable, resilient and commercially successful company. It will determine who gets ahead - and who gets left behind - in the years ahead. That's why our conference will address these issues in a comprehensive way: building on past successes, but also responding to new challenges and needs.

The automotive industry accounts for a significant share of Hungary's GDP and has long played a key role in the Hungarian economy. However, in recent years, not only has the number of automotive manufacturing companies entering the sector increased, but so have the challenges associated with the industry. The need for a green transition can no longer be ignored, and the global crises of recent years — including the vulnerability of supply chains, geopolitical tensions, the energy crisis, and the increased role of Chinese manufacturers in Hungary — continue to have a significant impact. The industry is currently undergoing major transformation, accompanied by considerable uncertainty: which powertrain technology will prevail in the future, how major markets will respond to trade and customs regulations, what innovations can be expected, and, ultimately, how European automotive companies can remain competitive in an increasingly turbulent industry environment? This year, the most important domestic OEMs, buyers, and suppliers will meet in Debrecen — let us learn from them, and from each other, by sharing best practices, followed by a dinner, evening programme, networking, and accommodation after the professional sessions. On the second day of the conference, factory visits to several nearby locations will be organised by shuttle bus. The optional factory visit is included in the registration fee. Departure times are 9:00 and 11:00, so two locations may be chosen during online registration.