Speciality Food March 2026

specialityfoodmagazine.com 13 WHAT’S NEW FOR THE 2026 SHOWS SPOTLIGHT ON COFFEE SHOP & CAFÉ As the food-to-go market continues to boom, this dedicated space at Farm Shop & Deli Show will highlight the latest trends and products. SPOTLIGHT ON FUTURE FOODS Part of Food & Drink Expo, this area will celebrate the brands and innovators redefining what good food means by showcasing wellness-driven, clean-label and sustainable products that deliver on taste and convenience. TASTE THE FUTURE Food innovation will also be highlighted by this competition, which gives visitors the chance to sample and score 40 trailblazing products across a range of categories. The winning supplier from each category will go forward to the live final and will get 10 minutes to pitch their product to a panel of industry experts. The brand chosen by the judges will win a package worth £5,000 from consumer testing agency Stickybeak. NEW-LOOK BRANDING The UK Food & Drink Shows branding has been designed to reflect the evolution of the shows and the energy and ambition of the industry. The new look retains the event’s existing colour palette but features a contemporary typeface and new background textures. The UK Food & Drink Shows is constantly evolving to reflect the vibrant and fast-moving industry, with new attractions for 2026 including: IN DETAIL WHAT: The UK Food & Drink Shows COMPRISING: Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show, Forecourt Show WHERE: NEC Birmingham WHEN: Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th April 2026 WEB: ukfoodanddrinkshows.co.uk NEED TO KNOW I’vemet visitors fromall over, fromsupply chain companies, fromcustomers that own smaller convenience stores tomultiple retail chains towholesale depots. It’s been really, really interesting JANEL FATANIA, CUSTOMER MARKETING MANAGER, DIAGEO about how they have made their businesses a success, and what developments and trends are likely to shape them in the future. Among those sharing their stories at this year’s event are: Alistair Maddox, Borough Market: The chief executive of one of London’s most iconic food destinations discusses his vision and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Borough Market continues to thrive while staying true to its heritage. James Robson, Fallow: Entrepreneur James Robson tells his story of transforming a sustainability-driven pop-up into a thriving restaurant group. Katie Secretan, Co-Op Wholesale: Managing director Katie Secretan discusses the story behind the Nisa rebrand and what it means for retailers, partners and customers. Mark Tate, Field to Fork: The owner of this Warwickshire business discusses his multi- channel approach, the challenges and opportunities facing the farm shop and deli market and what the future may hold for the specialist retailer. TomAthron, Fortnum & Mason: CEO TomAthron talks about his plans for the luxury retailer as it aims to become more relevant all- year round to British foodies. Sangita Tryner, Delilah Fine Foods: The current Farm Shop & Deli Retailer of the Year reveals what makes her tick, her views on the future of the industry and how the business is adapting to the challenges the sector is facing. PARTNER CONTENT