Highlights Test Day 1
Day One Highlights
What an incredible start to Breakbulk Europe 2026 we have had! From the Women in Breakbulk Networking Breakfast, to the inaugural NextWave 30 Awards, and ending with the infamous Breakbulk Boulevard Party, day one was jam-packed with connection, collaboration, and celebration. The halls were buzzing as thousands of industry professionals came together at Rotterdam Ahoy. See you on the exhibition floor for day two!
Today's highlights
Women in Breakbulk Networking Breakfast
The 2026 Breakfast was a vibrant and engaging event that combined industry insight, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connection. The theme, 'Power Up!' took centre stage as keynote, Vivien Puppa Kocsis, discussed the physiological factors and practical advice that help women maintain energy in demanding environments, and one panel explored how to effectively build energy that sustains yourself and your colleagues through the most challenging project work. The day closed with a wellness activity focused on the science of personal energy management - a chance to learn about the micro-practices that keep you running to ensure your work follows suit.
Keynote Address
Former Dutch Ambassador & Geopolitical Expert, Ron Keller, delivered the keynote address on the Breakbulk Live Stage. Ron set the global context for our industry, examining how geopolitics, conflict, sanctions and policy fragmentation are reshaping global trade. He focused on why predictability has eroded and what this means for long-term economic and supply-chain decision-making, providing the strategic backdrop for the discussions taking place across the 3 days of the show.
NextWave 30 & Green World Awards
The Breakbulk Live Stage was the setting for the inaugural NextWave 30 Awards, where the Class of 2026 were celebrated for their achievements, potential, and contribution to the industry. Followed by the Green World Awards, we celebrated companies within the project cargo sector contributing to a greener world and awarded our eight 2026 winners.
Breakbulk Boulevard Party
Day One closed with the Breakbulk Boulevard Party on Schiedamse Vest! This vibrant street party came alive with delicious food and drinks from local restaurants, energising music, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Attendees mingled, relaxed after a busy day, and celebrated with fellow attendees in a lively atmosphere that everyone was itching to be a part of!
Exhibitor Spotlight
We heard from
What to look forward to tomorrow
BUSINESSrun
Hit the ground running for day two and lace up for a 5K or 10K run around central Rotterdam. This is a great chance to combine fitness, networking, and giving back to the community under the motto: "Running for a Cause, Connecting for Success".
Learn moreNextWave 30 Networking Hour
Hosted in the Sports Bar, the next generation of the project cargo and breakbulk industry enjoy a relaxed setting for a chance to meet like-minded peers and other professionals early in their careers. These individuals are the future of the industry and fostering that talent starts at Breakbulk Europe.
Learn moreThe Innovation Pitch
Taking place at the Breakbulk Voices Stage, start-ups bringing new thinking into the port and maritime sector, from smarter operations to practical solutions for real industry challenges, take to the stage in front of industry leaders, decision-makers and start-up accelerators. This is a chance to build visibility and connect with the people shaping the market.
Learn moreWomen in Breakbulk Lounge Sessions
Across the 3 days of the event the Women in Breakbulk Lounge is hosting dedicated sessions on a range of topics. Today's sessions explored the difference between having diversity in a team and truly benefiting from it, the power of no in the workplace, African values in global trade, and when is the right time to call the lawyer.
Learn moreTomorrow's speakers include
Marco Poisler
Adjunct Professor, University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering, COO – Global Energy & Capital Projects, UTC Overseas, Inc.
André Starke
Director Project Logistics Global & Hydro Austria / Director Customs Competence Center
Andritz Hydro
Feel like you're missing out?
Don't wonder what Breakbulk Europe 2026 is like, experience it yourself! Tickets are available online or upon arrival so make sure to join us tomorrow for day two.





































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