At the beginning of the 20th century, the increasing mechanization in the confectionery industry gave rise to the desire to specifically train the next generation of confectioners in line with the constantly growing requirements. A few years passed before this wish became reality. On 28 January 1951, the “Verein der Zentralfachschule der Deutschen Süßwarenindustrie” was finally founded in Dortmund/Germany.

For more than 70 years now, the ZDS has been fulfilling the task of training the next generation, informing them about current developments and serving as an industry platform. Due to the Corona pandemic, the ZDS is now celebrating its 70th anniversary with a digital event: On 18 June 2021, a colourful programme will be offered via video conferencing tool and livestream.

Andreas Bertram, Managing Director of ZDS e.V., says: “We had very positive feedback for this format at our previous digital events last year and feel that we can provide the best possible platform for our anniversary with a digital event. The mix of presentations, hands-on activities and insights into the ZDS offers an extraordinary experience for both ZDS members and other interested participants”.

Among other things, participants can expect the live creation of a sweet work of art by chocolatier Lothar Buss, an impulse lecture on the topic of sustainability, a virtual tour of the ZDS, a drumming workshop as well as various programme points with audience interaction.

The programme will be moderated by Gunnar Brune, co-initiator and shareholder of the Neptun Crossmedia Award. He is member of the jury of the innovation award for confectionery “Sweetie” and member of the advisory board of the Bestseller Award for the most successful new products in the food retail sector. The first 50 registrations will receive an anniversary event box as a surprise.