Revisiting an industry after a decade and discovering how much has changed.
Published: July 3, 2026
The Journey Begins
Today was one of those rare days that leave you physically exhausted but mentally energized. I woke up at 5 AM, caught the Coimbatore bus at 7 AM, and reached Lakshmi Mills around noon. After meeting a friend at Starbucks and grabbing lunch at Lulu Mall, we headed to CODISSIA for the Bakers Expo.
My objective was simple: understand the latest trends in equipment, ingredients, food technology, and franchise opportunities.
A Decade of Change
As someone who entered the coffee shop business in 2016, this visit felt like reconnecting with an industry I hadn’t closely observed for nearly a decade.
What surprised me most was how much the industry has evolved. Back then, equipment options were limited, automation was expensive, and food technology was still in its early stages. Today, automation is everywhere. Machines are smarter, processes are more standardized, and even small operators can access technologies that were once available only to large chains.
The ingredient ecosystem has matured significantly as well. From beverage solutions and ready mixes to specialized food-processing innovations, the industry has become far more sophisticated and accessible.
Beyond the Expo
One thing I particularly enjoyed was using the city bus for local travel instead of relying on cabs. It offered a different perspective of the city and reminded me that some of the best observations happen outside conference halls and exhibition booths.
Final Thoughts
Days like this remind me of one of the advantages of living in South India. Whether it’s a business event, supplier visit, customer meeting, or industry exhibition, most destinations across Tamil Nadu and Kerala are just a few hours away, making learning and networking remarkably accessible.
The biggest takeaway from today wasn’t a specific machine, ingredient, or franchise opportunity. It was a reminder that industries evolve faster than we think. Sometimes, all it takes is stepping out for a day to realize how much the world has moved forward while you’ve been busy building your own business.
AnandNataraj 