On 16 and 17 October 2023, we welcomed over 200 participants to our Certification Body Conference in Berlin and to our live stream.

The annual IFS CB Conference brings together representatives of IFS-approved certification bodies from around the world. The 2-day conference programme consisted of a wide range of informative sessions. IFS Team Members delved into various aspects of certification, including updated standards, new programs and the latest company developments.

This year, we were happy to welcome two outstanding keynote speakers. Robert Prevendar, Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance at Yum! Brands, and Dr Jean-Charles Gander, Chief Quality Officer at the Migros Group, shared insights into their companies’ policies and the role IFS Certification plays in this context. 

The number of certification bodies we work with is constantly growing worldwide. If you are interested in joining our CB network, read more here.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed to this event and look forward to welcoming the CBs back to Berlin next year.

“With IFS Logistics version 3, we present a standard updated to current regulations, market expectations and the latest trends. IFS has developed this version with international experts from the logistics sector, food industries, retail and wholesale companies, and certification bodies. Their input and expertise ensure that the requirements meet the market’s needs. I thank everyone who has contributed to realising this new version”, says IFS Managing Director Stephan Tromp.

Optimised certification processes with IFS Logistics version 3

IFS Logistics version 3 has fewer requirements and an optimised protocol and structure. Further updates concern the scoring system, extensions and clarifications in the scopes, and the introduction of the star status to indicate an unannounced audit. It is now aligned with the IFS Food Standard version 8, which is relevant for combined audits.

“We took many suggestions from the logistics industry to make it more efficient for all stakeholders to work with the IFS Logistics Standard. I am positive that the optimised processes, workflow, and other updates will contribute to that”, states Mariana Estrada, IFS Logistics Standard Manager, about the new standard version.

IFS Logistics version 3 audits are possible starting 1 June 2024 and become mandatory on 1 December 2024.

IFS Logistics is widely used and accepted

Many retail, wholesale and food services companies trust IFS Logistics Certificates as they show that the company has established robust procedures and processes to handle their products professionally and responsibly. Over 3,300 companies, including large international logistics services providers, hold IFS Logistics Certifications, including large international logistics services providers.

IFS-certified companies benefit from a unique support package

IFS offers guidance, like guidelines and various tools, to support suppliers in reaching IFS Logistics Certification and further enhancing their product safety and quality management processes. Approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on official IFS Materials and recognised IFS Consultants support businesses with implementing the requirements and training staff.

The IFS Global Markets Logistics program helps logistics companies develop product safety and quality processes gradually.

International recognition

The IFS Logistics version 3 accreditation process is in progress with the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to be recognised under the sub-scopes of product certification of the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA). IAF MLA signatories mutually recognise accredited certification. It helps to reduce barriers to trade as accredited certificates are recognised in many markets based on a single accreditation. Also, the benchmarking process with GFSI has started.

More information

IFS Logistics version 3 is currently available in English only. Translations will come later, and we will inform you about them as soon as they are available.

For more information about the IFS Logistics Standard, please visit the IFS Logistics webpage.

For all significant information about IFS Logisitics version 3, read the whole newsletter here.

Mario Schuster has started with IFS as Director of IFS Market Development. He comes to us with versatile expertise in food retail and the dynamic world of startups. He combines the best of established strategies and innovative thinking. His deep understanding of the retail landscape contributes to building strong relationships, understanding market dynamics and skilfully navigating challenges and opportunities for IFS.

Holly Hatam is the new Deputy Director of the department. Holly brings a wealth of experience from various certification bodies, where she held different key positions. She convinces with her ability to develop markets in a targeted manner and to tailor offers to customers.

Mario and Holly will be responsible for the strategic and operational development of IFS and our products and services in the global marketplace. They will work closely with all IFS Stakeholders, the IFS Team, and IFS Representatives to explore opportunities, expand our position, and set new impulses in the different markets. 

Their individual journeys give them a deep understanding of the intricacies of the respective markets and innovative mindsets that align perfectly with our goals. Their strategic thinking and ability to identify untapped opportunities will undoubtedly contribute to IFS’s continued success. 

Learn more about Holly and Mario in our IFS Faces Blog.