For three days, tens of thousands of visitors came together from across the UK food and drink sector to build new business relationships, be inspired by industry experts, and sample the latest products.
From April 13 to April 15, the NEC Birmingham was home to The UK Food & Drink Shows – the annual event that shines a spotlight on the grocery, hospitality, specialist retail, convenience and forecourt sectors.
This year’s event comprised four individual shows, each dedicated to a trade sector: Farm Shop & Deli Show, Food & Drink Expo, National Convenience Show, and Forecourt Show.
Around 1,200 exhibitors, from the world’s biggest names in FMCG and manufacturing to start-up businesses taking their first step, travelled from across the globe to present their products and services. The halls were buzzing with packed aisles of buyers and trade visitors, from the largest multiple retailers to independent operators.
New features introduced for 2026 included the Spotlight on Coffee Shop & Café; the Spotlight on Future Foods; and the Taste the Future competition that gave visitors the chance to sample and score 40 trailblazing products.The winner, which received a package worth £5,000 from consumer testing agency Stickybeak, was MisoHeat Chili Paste.
Competitions are a big part of The UK Food & Drink Shows line-up, with the winners of the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards announced at the event. The retailer of the year accolade went to Leamington Spa-based butchers Aubrey Allen, which was praised for its work in the community and care of its employees.
The UK Food & Drink Shows is organised by William Reed. Managing director of exhibitions Dan Dixon said: “The halls of the NEC Birmingham were filled with excitement as thousands of visitors connected, forged business partnerships, and sampled products that will be delighting consumers in the weeks and months to come. Planning is under way for The UK Food & Drink Shows 2027, with 65% of stand space already secured for next year. We look forward to seeing there!”
The UK Food & Drink Shows 2027 will take place at the NEC Birmingham from April 12 to April 14. For more information visit ukfoodanddrinkshows.co.uk
