Speciality-Food-Magazine-November-December-2024

competitive market.” With more than 1,500 exhibitors taking part each year, and over 30,000 industry professionals visiting the show, IFE is an unrivalled platform for growing brand exposure and making personal connections with senior decision makers. Eighty per cent of the event’s attendees have senior purchasing authority, representing more than £32 billion in combined buying power, and providing a F or more than 45 years, IFE has been a must-attend for senior decision-makers across the food and drink industry, and is an invaluable sourcing opportunity for countless buyers and procurement professionals in addition to providing insights into future trends and product innovations. Adrian Boswell, buyer at Selfridges, says of the 2024 edition, “This year’s IFE was a great experience. Offering an impressive specialityfoodmagazine.com 17 array of innovative products and trends that left me inspired and equipped to elevate my company’s offerings. The diversity of exhibitors and products showcased the full spectrum of the food industry. “There were excellent networking opportunities, allowing me to connect with industry leaders. Most importantly, IFE 2024 provided invaluable insights into emerging trends and equipped me with the knowledge to stay ahead in a JOINTHEGLOBAL FOOD ANDDRINKCOMMUNITYAT IFE 2025 The show, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, returns to Excel London on 17th to 19th March, 202 direct path into newmarkets and relationships to accelerate business growth. The show is also host to the World Food Innovation Awards in partnership with FoodBev Media, recognising excellence in international food and drink across a diverse range of categories, from low and no and artisan products, to innovations in packaging design, marketing and sustainability. International opportunities for food and drink producers In addition to facilitating invaluable connections with UK food and drink buyers, IFE is also a key launchpad for producers into thriving international markets. The show attracts visitors and exhibitors from over 105 countries, providing the perfect platform for businesses considering exporting their products or expanding their global footprint. Exhibiting at IFE allows producers to connect with buyers, suppliers, and potential partners from across the world, enabling them to gain insights into newmarkets and seize fresh opportunities. Greg Hardam, export manager at DJ&A, highlights the value of the 2024 edition. “The quality of networking at IFE was exceptional. We connected with key industry players, including potential clients and partners. These interactions opened doors to promising business prospects and collaborations.” The show’s Exporters Hub also features a comprehensive programme of content designed to support the import and export of food and drink, with past speakers including representatives from the Department of Business & Trade and the Food & Drink Exporters Association. The Startup Market IFE’s Startup Market is a dynamic section of the exhibition that offers an incredible opportunity for emerging food and drink businesses. Specifically dedicated to companies that have been trading for less than two years, the Startup Market is the perfect launching pad for innovative brands looking to make a name PARTNER CONTENT