Content provided by IFE.
IFE, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, returns to Excel London on 17–19 March, packed with innovative new products, insightful discussions, and countless opportunities to network with industry peers.
For over 40 years, IFE has been a must-attend trade event for retailers, wholesalers, hospitality professionals, and more to discover the latest trends and products shaping the UK and international food & drink landscape. With its focus on innovation and quality, IFE continues to provide a vital platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and share insights that drive their businesses forward.
With 14 exciting food & drink zones to explore, there’s something for every corner of the industry. From speciality foods to plant-based innovation, the event reflects the breadth and diversity of the sector. The Fresh Produce Section, hosted in partnership with the Fresh Produce Consortium, is set to expand further in 2025, bringing even more products to discover. Whether you’re seeking to diversify your offering or enhance your supply chain, the section promises a rich variety of high-quality produce to explore.
Another highlight of the show is the Startup Market, a dynamic space dedicated to showcasing up-and-coming businesses and inspiring food & drink entrepreneurs. Here, visitors will discover ground-breaking ideas, unique flavours, and cutting-edge solutions from some of the most exciting emerging brands in the industry.
The Speciality Food, Chilled & Frozen, and Vegan & Plant-Based sections will highlight some of the key trends driving consumer purchasing behaviour, including sustainability, health, and dietary diversity. These sections are invaluable for retailers and foodservice professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in catering to evolving customer demands and quickly and easily source in specific product categories.
This year’s event will also see the return of the New Products Tasting Theatre, where visitors can enjoy live product pitches from innovative startups, attend demos by quality producers, and hear from organisations including FICT – French Charcuterie & Deli Companies, Hopscotch and Isle of Man. This interactive space is perfect for buyers looking to sample the next big thing in food & drink and connect with the creative minds behind the products.
Alongside showcasing products from across the UK, IFE 2025 will provide a platform for international exhibitors from more than 45 countries, including Greece, Italy, Vietnam, South Korea, Kenya, Poland, and India. This global reach offers visitors the opportunity to source unique products and build valuable connections with suppliers worldwide.
On the Future Food Stage, industry leaders from retail, hospitality, and foodservice will share their expertise, providing deep dives into the trends, challenges, and opportunities facing the food & drink sector. From navigating supply chain challenges to uncovering invaluable consumer insights, this stage is a must-visit for anyone looking to gain actionable knowledge to futureproof their business.
Mark Thomson, Co-Founder of TRKR, reflected on his 2024 experience: "IFE is a must-attend event on the food & drink calendar. It’s a brilliant opportunity to meet suppliers from all over the world and taste many of the latest food & drink flavours and trends. In addition to this, there’s also the chance to hear all about the latest trends and insights from industry experts. What’s not to like!"
Another highlight of IFE 2025 will be the World Food Innovation Awards, held in partnership with FoodBev Media. These prestigious awards celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of brands that are reshaping the industry with groundbreaking products and solutions.
Uncover NPD insights at IFE Manufacturing
IFE’s sister event, IFE Manufacturing, is the ultimate business event for food & drink product development. Taking place alongside IFE, this show offers a unique opportunity for brand owners and manufacturers to source the latest packaging, ingredients, technology, and manufacturing solutions.
Attendees have praised the value of IFE Manufacturing in driving product innovation and networking with industry professionals. David Ullah, National Account Manager at Riverside Foods, shared: "Thoroughly enjoyed myself, some great insight and even better I came away with loads of NPD ideas to entertain the production team!"
Hoi Yan Chan, Development Technologist at Bakkavor, added: "Participating in IFE Manufacturing proved to be an enlightening experience. It was truly inspiring to glean insights from industry leaders, making the event not only educational but also professionally enriching. Moreover, the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with fellow professionals added an invaluable dimension to my experience."
The show’s Trends & Innovation Platform will feature talks and panel discussions on key topics such as AI in manufacturing, transitioning to net zero, navigating allergens and reformulation, and the role of contract manufacturing in the future of food. These sessions, led by industry experts and trend forecasters, are designed to provide actionable insights for businesses looking to innovate and thrive in an evolving market.
IFE Manufacturing will also be home to the Exporters Hub, a valuable resource for food & drink brands seeking to expand internationally. Visitors can gain practical advice, hear case studies from successful exporters, and learn how to navigate the challenges of entering global markets.
Another key feature of the event is the Certification Clinic, where organisations such as BRCGS, Halal Certification Organisation (HCO) UK, SALSA, Soil Association, Loop
Certified, and RSPCA Assured will offer guidance on achieving essential industry certifications. This service provides businesses with the tools to build trust and credibility in their products.
IFE takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC, and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week. To find out more about everything happening at this year’s event, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit ife.co.uk.
