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 15 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, 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. 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 Grocery & Wholesale 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.
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 over 60 countries, including Greece, Italy, The United States, Canada, 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.
One of the keynote sessions, “Consumer Trends in 2025: Three Key Things to Monitor Over the Next Twelve Months” will be led by Kate Kehoe, Marketing Manager at FMCG Gurus. There will also be a fireside chat, “Empowering Change,” with Planet Organic Founder Renée Elliott and Holly Shackleton, Editor of Speciality Food.
Additionally, the panel discussion “Revolutionising Retail: How Accelerators and Incubators are Shaping the Future,” moderated by Theadora Alexander, CEO of YF, will feature Andrew Allen, Head of Open Doors at Bidfood, and Melanie Harris, Innovation Development Manager at Iceland.
Another key panel session, “State of the Vegan-nation,” moderated by Freya O’Mara, Trading Manager for Pantry & Speciality Foods at Ocado, will feature Indy Kaur, CEO and Founder of Plant Futures, Karen Spinner, Sales & Marketing Manager at the Vegan Society, and Toni Vernelli, International Head of Policy & Communications at Veganuary.
The World Food Innovation Awards, held in partnership with FoodBev Media, will also be a key highlight of IFE 2025. 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.
The event provides a wealth of opportunities for businesses to explore new trends and gain inspiration for their product development strategies.
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.
