Food innovation and the continued growth of the food-to-go market are among the themes taking center stage at this year's UK Food & Drink Shows.
From Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th April, businesses across the food, hospitality, specialist retail and manufacturing sectors will come together at the NEC Birmingham for three days. The UK Food & Drink Shows 2026 comprises four events, each targeting a sector of the food and drink industry:
- The Food & Drink Expo is the place to gain insights into the future of food, attracting decision makers from food retail and wholesale.
- The Farm Shop & Deli Show features local and regional products as well as new product developments and equipment, labeling and packaging solutions.
- The National Convenience Show is the largest event for the convenience retail sector and is described as a “one-stop destination” for c-store specific products and services.
- The Forecourt Show will help companies find products, fresh ideas and smart solutions to future-proof their operations.
Around 1,200 companies will be exhibiting at the four trade fairs and more than 25,000 visitors are expected to attend the event. Once again, the UK Food & Drink Shows promise a program of panels, expert speakers and demonstrations on the topics and trends driving the industry. New attractions for 2026 include:
- Coffee Shop & Café Spotlight: As the food-to-go market continues to boom, this dedicated section at the Farm Shop & Deli Show will highlight the latest trends and products shaping the sector.
- Spotlight on Future Foods: As part of the Food & Drink Expo, this space celebrates the brands and innovators who are redefining what good food means by showcasing wellness-focused, clean label and sustainable products that deliver taste and convenience.
Competitions are always an important part of the UK Food & Drink Shows program and the 2026 event brings the debut of the Taste the Future competition. Visitors have the opportunity to taste and evaluate 40 groundbreaking products. Participating brands will be in the running for prizes worth £5,000.
Judging for the popular Britain's Best Loaf and Britain's Best Cake competitions will take place live, while the winners of the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards will be announced.
To find out more and register for free tickets, visit the UK Food & Drink Shows website.
British Food and Drink Trade Shows
Consisting of: Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show, Forecourt Show
Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th April 2026
NEC Birmingham
www.ukfoodanddrinkshows.co.uk
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