We are pleased to announce that the International Food Marketing Research Symposium (IFMRS) 2027 will be hosted by MAPP, Aarhus University, and Klimaschloss Beilstein in cooperation with the Diakoniewissenschaftliches Institut at the University of Heidelberg. The symposium will take place from 1 to 3 June 2027.
About Heidelberg
Heidelberg lies on the River Neckar in southwestern Germany. Its historic Old Town, the Old Bridge and the castle overlooking the valley give the city its distinctive character. Home to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg combines a long academic tradition with a lively student atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the Old Town’s streets and squares, walk along the river or enjoy views of the city from the Philosophenweg. Local cafés and restaurants offer opportunities to sample regional food and wine, making Heidelberg a pleasant place to spend a few extra days before or after the symposium.
More information about Heidelberg: Heidelberg film
Conference Program
The event will begin with a Welcome Reception on Tuesday evening, June 1st.
The main conference will take place over two full days, June 2nd and June 3rd, featuring diverse sessions on:
The conference will conclude with a Closing Dinner on Thursday evening, June 3rd at Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg in the Old Town.
Welcome Reception
Join us for an informal welcome reception with drinks and regional food in Heidelberg. The reception offers an opportunity to meet fellow participants before the main conference begins.
Abstract Submission
We invite submissions for both extended abstracts (up to 2,500 words) and short abstracts (up to 500 words).
The submission deadline is April 1st, 2027.
Submit your abstract at: The link will open in January 2027.
Graduate students are especially encouraged to submit, with special recognition for the best student paper.
Important note: Each participant may submit only one abstract as the submitting author.
Registration
Conference registration is 750 EUR and includes:
Registration Link: Registration will open upon submission of abstracts.
Venue
The conference and welcome reception will take place in the Marsilius Tower, University of Heidelberg.
Address: Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.1, 69120 Heidelberg-Handschuhsheimer Feld.
Travel
Frankfurt Airport offers extensive international connections. Heidelberg can be reached from the airport by direct train, long-distance bus, or taxi.
Public transportation in Heidelberg is well organised. Daily and weekly tickets are available, including connections between the Old Town and the conference venue. Tourist information also offers combined tickets that may include local transport and admission to attractions such as Heidelberg Castle.
Contact
For inquiries, please contact:
ifmrs@mgmt.au.dk
We look forward to welcoming you to Heidelberg for an inspiring and memorable IFMRS 2027!
Pre-Congress Workshop
30 May–1 June 2027: Living Lab “Climate Castle Beilstein”
Tasting and Preparing “Speaking Swabian Food”
In southern Baden-Württemberg, a potato salad is said to be ready when it “speaks” to you, while Spätzle dough is ready when it begins to bubble. Surrounded by organic wineries, participants will learn to listen to their food, taste regional wines, and discover a traditional “Volkslied” – an experience of Swabian “Gemütlichkeit” in the castle garden.
The historic, 100-year-old castle is certified for sustainability and offers 23 rooms with simple accommodation standards.
More info about the workshop and registration will follow soon.