Ascona Group extends its supply contract with Co-op Wholesale for five years, reinforcing its position as a leading independent forecourt operator amid strategic expansion and innovative service offerings across the UK.
Marks & Spencer reaches a 4.5% share of the UK grocery market, driven by strong physical store sales and a rapidly expanding online platform through Ocado, as it recovers from recent operational setbacks and competes with discounters like Aldi and Lidl.
Total grocery sales in UK supermarkets grew by 4.1% in early September, driven by changing shopping habits and inflation-driven price increases, as consumers focus on essential purchases ahead of Christmas amid economic pressures.
Brakes, a leading UK foodservice wholesaler, has unveiled its comprehensive 'Countdown to Christmas' campaign featuring over 1,000 seasonal products, innovative desserts, support tools for operators, and a £1 million cashback giveaway to help businesses thrive during the festive period amid economic uncertainties.
A recent survey reveals that one in three UK consumers now considers the environmental impact of crisp packaging, with younger shoppers leading the shift towards recycled materials and clear eco-friendly claims, driven by a rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions despite economic pressures.
The fresh meat packaging industry is experiencing a significant shift towards eco-friendly materials, smart technologies, and automation, propelled by rising consumer demand, regulatory pressures, and advances in digital solutions, shaping a more sustainable and efficient future.
The coffee substitute industry, valued at USD 12.75 billion in 2024, is experiencing a marked shift driven by health-conscious consumers seeking natural, caffeine-free options, with Europe maintaining dominance and Asia-Pacific leading in growth.
We are delighted to unveil this year's Christmas category winners!
Aldi commits to providing 10,000 young people across the UK with remote retail work experience through a free online course by the end of 2025, enhancing career opportunities in the sector.
Lidl GB has outperformed its initial goal, with a 694% surge in plant-based product sales over five years, cementing its leadership in the UK’s protein transition and sustainable sourcing efforts.
Shares in major UK retail groups fell sharply as analysts warn that rising inflation, job market uncertainty, and tax prospects are curbing discretionary spending, with investors turning cautious on retail stocks exposed to consumer confidence declines.
Waitrose becomes the first UK supermarket to meet the Better Chicken Commitment standards across its entire own-brand chicken range, introducing transparent welfare labelling and setting a new industry benchmark for higher welfare standards.
As organisations recognise food as a strategic asset, innovative dining programs are evolving to meet rising expectations, optimise costs, and enhance organisational culture, driven by sustainability, technology, and a focus on employee health.
At the PDI Connections Live conference, industry experts highlighted how tailored, seamless loyalty strategies, including digital, physical, and employee-driven initiatives, are transforming convenience store customer retention and sales amid increased competition and inflationary pressures.
Sainsbury’s has updated its beloved 'Waynesbury’s' campaign to emphasise tailored savings, adopting a data-driven approach to deepen customer engagement amid economic pressures.
Birds Eye has unveiled a multi-faceted approach to sustainable pea cultivation in Yorkshire, integrating advanced breeding, biological solutions, and biodiversity initiatives to secure the future of local farming amid environmental challenges.
Food price inflation in the UK has surged to its fastest rate in 18 months, driven by rising costs of staples such as eggs, butter, and chocolate amid ongoing economic pressures.
Data reveals a 7% increase in plastic bag use in England, driven by the growth of online grocery deliveries, prompting supermarkets to expand recycling and reusable packaging initiatives amid ongoing environmental concerns.
JJ Foodservice has refreshed its Foodit platform, bundling branded websites, on‑site hardware, a manager app and training resources to help independent restaurants and takeaways drive direct online sales and retain customer data.
The UK food and drink sector unveils the Mmmake Your Mark initiative to bridge the skills gap, challenge outdated perceptions, and inspire a new generation of professionals amid mounting labour shortages and sector transformation.
Paramount Retail Group has acquired Dorset wholesaler DB Food Group, forming Paramount Food Group Limited to channel investment aimed at scaling supply‑chain resilience, expanding retailer partnerships and promoting ethically sourced British meat while industry observers flag the consolidation risks.
We are thrilled to unveil the shortlist for this year’s UK Quality Food and Drink Awards. The esteemed panel of judges, including recipe developers, chefs, buyers, and other industry professionals, put each entry through a rigorous judging process, so being shortlisted for a Q is a huge achievement.
Henderson Group has granted all 5,600 staff access to Women in Business programmes, extending development and networking to around 2,800 women across its retail, wholesale, foodservice and property divisions as part of wider people, wellbeing and diversity commitments.
Worldpanel by Numerator data shows grocery price inflation slipped to 5.0% in the four weeks to 10 August even as take‑home sales rose 4% year‑on‑year; shoppers are trading meals out for branded and premium own‑label convenience items while market share shifts favour discounters and online specialists.
JJ Foodservice has refreshed its Foodit platform, bundling branded websites, on‑site hardware, a manager app and training resources to help independent restaurants and takeaways drive direct online sales and retain customer data — pitching a low‑cost, capped‑commission alternative to third‑party marketplaces.
Aldi has invited Welsh charities, community groups and food banks to register via Neighbourly to collect surplus fresh and chilled items, part of a national programme that has redirected around 40 million meals since 2019 and now includes emergency microgrants and seasonal funds.
Poundland’s sale to Gordon Brothers, Morrisons’ targeted shop and café cuts, Homebase conversions under CDS Superstores and Iceland’s estate reviews have combined in 2025 to produce a patchwork of confirmed and planned closures - an Express tally of 137 that highlights how retailers are prioritising higher‑margin formats amid cost pressures and changing shopper habits.
The UK’s largest farm and food assurance scheme is rolling out a multi‑channel anniversary campaign, led by PR agency WPR, to convert high logo recognition into clearer consumer understanding and point‑of‑sale purchases amid ongoing questions about provenance and labelling.
Supermarket bosses have accused the Welsh government of pursuing an “antiquated” approach to its proposed deposit return scheme by insisting single‑use glass be included from the outset, warning the move will add cost into the system and heap further inflationary pressure on already hard‑pressed shoppers. Retail trade bodies say the compromise on glass - collecting containers without an initial deposit and without changes to labelling - risks creating operational complexity that could undermine a workable, UK‑wide rollout. According to reporting in The Grocer, the dispute has crystallised into a standoff between business groups and ministers over pace and scope.
Headline grocery inflation in Great Britain slipped to 5.0% in the four weeks to 10 August, yet shoppers are still reshaping budgets — favouring branded and premium own‑label lines, quicker meal solutions and cutting back on eating out as discounters and Ocado/Lidl lead retail growth.
To mark its 125th anniversary in Great Britain, Coca‑Cola Europacific Partners has commissioned a portrait and mini‑documentary series, The Bosses, pairing high‑fashion photography with intimate films of six local corner‑shop families — a branded effort that foregrounds community roles, commissioned research on shopping habits and the company’s ‘Made in GB’ messaging.
Aldi has expanded its partnership with community platform Neighbourly to match more Welsh charities, food banks and community groups with local stores for collection of near‑date fresh, chilled and long‑life items, alongside logistical support such as donated fridges to help organisations store perishable donations.
Welsh Government-funded Food & Drink Skills Wales is offering tailored diagnostics, workforce development managers and funded training to help processing and manufacturing firms tackle skills shortfalls, accelerate decarbonisation and support business growth — while early case studies point to improved staff confidence and career pathways.
Eight early-career professionals from across Wales’ red-meat supply chain have been selected for Hybu Cig Cymru’s (HCC) Meat Minds year-long development programme, which pairs participants with industry mentors; applications are now open for a second intake.
Suzy Stirling received a 20‑Year Long Service Award at HC‑One’s inaugural Chef of the Year event after rising from kitchen assistant to Group Development Chef for Scotland, recognised for improving menu standards, texture‑modified diets and staff training to boost residents’ wellbeing.
Once an affordable national staple, Britain’s 10,000‑odd specialist chippies are being squeezed by collapsing local fishing supply, quota cuts, rising ingredient and energy costs, and labour pressures, prompting fears that the dish could move from everyday fare to occasional treat unless policy, industry and consumer actions change course.
The supermarket says the calmest times to visit during the school holidays are 8am–10am, 4pm–5pm and 8pm–10pm, urging families to shop then to avoid crowds and increase chances of finding heavily reduced bakery, meat and deli items; the retailer is also running parent-focused voucher schemes and has raised store pay rates.
Discount chain Poundland has confirmed a further 12 shop closures and plans to shut two distribution centres as new owner Gordon Brothers reshapes the business, winds down online and frozen ranges and launches clearance sales amid consultations that could put more than a thousand jobs at risk.
The Irish Farmers’ Association warns that fresh maincrop volumes and recent rains across parts of Europe have eased drought concerns and could push wholesale and retail potato prices lower, though quality issues and pockets of ongoing dryness leave the harvest outlook uncertain.
The wholesaler has unveiled a wide-ranging festive campaign — more than 700 seasonal products, 300+ time-limited deals, early‑bird pre-order discounts and its largest Safari rewards promotion — promising price, labour and menu-planning support for out‑of‑home operators ahead of the crucial November–December trading period.
Launched in 2023, Transition Dundee’s volunteer‑led Gleaning Project harvests edible produce left after commercial pickers finish and redistributes hundreds of kilograms of fruit and vegetables each week to local larders, community fridges and food banks amid Scotland’s wider food‑waste challenge.
Welsh Pantry, Kepak’s Merthyr plant and Beacon Foods received bespoke on‑site root cause analysis training funded through the HELIX programme, training more than 90 staff to strengthen investigations, prevent recurring safety issues and support growth.
Multi QFA-winner Brakes has launched a campaign and new product range positioning mutton as a like‑for‑like, lower‑cost alternative to lamb for chefs, backed by recipe support, portioning guidance and cashback incentives as part of its Ways to Save programme.
A new city‑by‑city ranking shows ten UK urban areas using procurement standards, redistribution schemes and low‑emission logistics to make food sourcing more traceable and reduce the sector’s environmental footprint — with Brighton & Hove, Manchester and Nottingham offering practical models for wider adoption.
A Grand View Research report values the global vegan yoghurt market at about USD 3.82bn in 2024 and forecasts growth to roughly USD 11.11bn by 2030, driven by millennials, product innovation, wider retail distribution and moves by major food groups and investors into fortified, dairy‑free alternatives.
Employers in the food service sector are improving retention and candidate quality by tapping into customer referrals, partnering with educational institutions, and using gamified recruitment apps. Combining authentic social media campaigns with streamlined digital onboarding boosts appeal to tech-savvy early-career candidates and strengthens employer branding.
Technidrive has delivered its 1,000th bespoke control solution across the UK and Ireland, with its TechniVac and TechniFlow systems driving up to 60% energy savings for dairy farms while improving milk quality and reducing noise.
Leon Grocery has expanded its grocery range with the launch of Korean GFC Nuggets, a gluten-free, baked chicken snack seasoned with Korean spices, available exclusively at Ocado. This launch highlights Leon’s strategic move into healthier convenience foods with bold cultural flavours, tapping into growing consumer demand for air fryer-friendly and protein-rich snacks.
The Food and Drink Federation Scotland has opened applications for the eighth round of its Reformul8 Challenge Fund, offering up to £5,000 to SMEs to reformulate recipes by reducing fat, sugar and salt or increasing beneficial ingredients, reinforcing efforts aligned with new regulations and public health goals.
The Happy Egg Co., under Noble Foods, launches frozen ready-to-cook omelettes in Morrisons from January 2025, combining free-range eggs with advanced freezing tech to meet consumer demand for convenient, protein-rich meals.
Golden Acre Foods is launching new halal products under its Najma and Jaldee Eats brands in Tesco stores this August, broadening the UK’s halal chilled meat market with convenient and diverse options tailored for evolving consumer lifestyles.
The city’s Holiday Programme, funded with over £2.2 million and supported by 59 local organisations, continues to provide meals and activities to more than 21,000 children each summer. With over 150,000 young people reached since inception, SNP-led council pledges ongoing investment despite political challenges.
David Scott’s departure as Morrisons’ head of property comes at a pivotal time as the retailer accelerates its Morrisons Daily store rollout, aiming to reach 2,000 convenience outlets by 2025 while reshaping its property team and strengthening financial resilience.
Fresh Direct reports a significant increase in British produce sales in 2024, driven by premiumisation and demand for convenient, high-quality ingredients. Its expanded British range and innovative prepared products reflect wider market trends supporting local growers and responding to industry labour challenges.
The UK tightens sugar taxes on drinks over 10g sugar/100ml and clamps marketing of HFSS products, prompting leading brands like Coca-Cola to reformulate. Concurrent US FDA dye bans and rising consumer demand for health, sustainability, and AI-driven innovation drive global beverage industry transformation.
SPONSORED CONTENT: Winnie's Original, an Oxford-based jam manufacturer, embodies a unique blend of luxury and culture, offering a range of handmade jams, sauces, and condiments that are as inspiring as their vibrant background. Founded not on a long family heritage, but on a "realised dream working its way out of creative expression and a love of great food," Winnie's Original stands out for its passionate approach to crafting exceptional preserves.
Sainsbury’s is fast-tracking its UK store growth strategy with plans for more than 100 new outlets in strategic locations. Highlights include a flagship West Hendon store featuring ultra-rapid EV charging and fresh openings across regions, while some developments face planning hurdles, reflecting the supermarket’s ambitious regional and sustainability commitments under Patrick Dunne’s leadership.
Aldi will become the first UK supermarket to guarantee a minimum hourly wage of £13.00 for store assistants nationwide from September 2025, surpassing the Real Living Wage and reinforcing its position as the highest-paying grocer. Pay within the M25 will rise to £14.33, with increments for service length, amid fierce competition in retail labour markets.
Tesco has introduced a fresh produce campaign offering personalised Clubcard incentives and free fruit giveaways aimed at improving UK families’ fruit and vegetable consumption amid stagnant national health statistics and rising concerns over diet-related illnesses.
The rise of tropical fruit blends in beverages is driving new health-focused, visually striking products that meet growing consumer demands for natural ingredients, functional benefits, and strong storytelling amid expanding global flavour trends.
UK growers are set for a bumper berry season, with blueberry yields jumping nearly 25% due to the warmest spring on record. Enhanced fruit size, improved flavour, and rising demand signal growth, while robotic picking remains in development to meet future labour challenges.
Record-breaking heatwaves and an ageing farming population in Kyoto have driven down matcha yields by 25%, causing supply shortages and a 70% surge in prices as global demand driven by wellness trends and tourism booms.
UK bakeries face a growing waste crisis as thousands of edible products are discarded daily due to strict cosmetic standards, despite efforts by firms like Earth & Wheat rescuing 600 tonnes yearly; industry experts call for cultural shifts and new strategies to reduce environmental and economic losses.
Welsh wholesaler Harlech Foodservice has strengthened its market position by acquiring fruit and vegetable supplier Oren Foods, expanding its product range and safeguarding jobs, in a move that supports its wider regional growth and investment strategy.
Founded in 2022, Castra Machinebouw has developed a revolutionary egg conveyor system using Siemens’ Solid Edge to address inefficiencies in traditional poultry conveyors, enabling faster, gentler egg handling and promising major industry-wide impact.
Ant & Dec have become co-owners of Lancashire’s The Northern Dough Co., actively driving product innovation and content creation as the frozen bakery market booms, signalling a new model of celebrity-led brand growth beyond endorsements.
Morrisons raises rebate caps from 1.5% to up to 6% for Morrisons Daily franchisees, alongside competitive pricing reviews and extending the More loyalty scheme to franchised stores, as part of its strategy to expand and strengthen its UK convenience store network.
Lidl has gained a record 8.3% market share this summer, boosted by over half a million new customers and price-sensitive shoppers, narrowing the gap on Morrison’s declining 8.4%, as debt-laden rivals Asda and Morrisons struggle to keep pace in a highly competitive grocery sector.
Lidl marks 31 years in the UK with its 1,000th store opening this November, overcoming recent financial pressures as it continues strategic growth and job creation across the country.
PepsiCo has announced plans to launch versions of Cheetos and Doritos without artificial colours or flavours and will rebrand Lay’s and Tostitos to eliminate synthetic dyes by the end of 2025 as part of a major shift towards cleaner, healthier snack products.
A third of independent retailers now use AI daily, saving over two hours and nearly £80 each day on marketing, customer service, and stock management. Despite concerns over cost and ethics, many smaller shops find AI boosts efficiency and helps compete with larger firms.
Premier Foods reports 11.4% rise in sweet treats driven by innovation, while grocery sales fall 2.7% due to warm weather suppressing demand for hot food. Overall growth remains modest amid inflation and cost pressures, with new product launches aiming to sustain momentum through 2025.
Cottage cheese is experiencing rapid growth in sales and popularity, driven by viral TikTok recipes and a rise in health-conscious consumers seeking high-protein, clean-label options. UK retailers report significant uplift, reflecting a wider reinvention of the product as a versatile superfood beyond its traditional image.
A new Local Producers Food and Drink Trail Map for Inverness and Loch Ness has been launched to highlight local businesses, supported by interactive tours and weekly street food events, promoting sustainable Highland food culture and economic growth.
Once a simple salted snack, crisps have grown into a defining element of British food culture, blending nostalgic traditions with innovative gourmet trends and celebrity endorsements, securing their place as Britain’s unlikely national dish.
M&S introduces invisible ultraviolet tags on four-pint milk bottles nationwide, partnering with Polytag to provide real-time data on plastic packaging recycling and improve transparency, compliance, and sustainability under new EPR regulations.
Sainsbury’s is introducing Your Nectar Prices at supermarket tills across the country from Friday 25th July, giving customers a new way to access huge savings on the products they love and buy most.
Tesco has reported a nearly 10% surge in fruit sales driven by prolonged hot weather and Wimbledon. Meanwhile, UK farmers face drought challenges, urging urgent investment in water resilience to sustain domestic fruit production amid extreme weather.
UK foodservice businesses are rapidly shifting to certified biodegradable packaging like Bioleader® products following new government bans on single-use plastics. The move aligns with evolving environmental regulations, cuts waste disposal costs, and boosts brand loyalty among eco-conscious consumers.
Local Glasgow actor Lauren has been shortlisted among 10 finalists in Lidl’s nationwide competition to find a distinctive Scottish voice for its new self-service checkouts, as the supermarket invests £3 million to enhance customer choice and celebrate Scotland’s linguistic diversity.
Aldi UK CEO Giles Hurley has welcomed the government’s Good Food Cycle initiative aimed at tackling obesity, climate change and food security, while calling for swifter planning permissions to support Aldi’s UK expansion and continued focus on sustainable British food supply chains.
Fruit Focus 2025 attracted over 1,500 industry stakeholders, spotlighting innovations in automation, water management, and crop protection amid climate risks. Government-backed funding and reforms aim to boost UK fruit production, tackling export barriers and labour shortages with high-tech solutions.
The Compleat Food Group enhances its market leadership in the UK chilled prepared foods sector by acquiring Freshpak, a key manufacturer of sandwich fillings, egg products, and chilled snacks, boosting its turnover beyond £1.3 billion.
Plant-based cuisine in London has transformed from niche options to flavour-led centrepieces, inspired by global influences and zero-waste practices, with restaurants championing authentic dishes, creative pickling, and versatile vegetables for mainstream and fine dining alike.
Yeast extracts are becoming essential in UK food manufacturing, enhancing flavour, texture, and lowering sodium in plant-based summer products. This innovation supports the rising demand driven by 2.5 million UK vegans and growing health-conscious consumer behaviour.
New research reveals Britons over 55 are more willing to try novel dishes than Generation Z, challenging stereotypes. Seaweed is emerging as a popular ingredient, while travel and cooking shows continue to inspire adventurous eating, with Edinburgh leading and Sheffield lagging in culinary boldness.
Innovative UK culinary trends are helping families create restaurant-style meals affordably through low-waste cooking, plant-first dishes, and global flavours, while engaging children in sustainable, creative meal preparation and budget-conscious dining.
Morrisons has introduced an AI-powered product finder within its app, developed with Google’s Gemini model, enabling shoppers to instantly locate items by aisle and position in any store, enhancing customer experience and easing staff workload.
Facing rising pressures in UK foodservice, Bidfood launches new initiatives including carbon footprint tracking with CarbonCloud, a waste-cutting recipe book, smart technology integrations, and strengthened packaging commitments to empower caterers towards net-zero emissions by 2045.
Entries to the 2025 UK Quality Food Awards product categories are now closed – thank you to everyone who entered this year!
London-based Woods Foodservice has become the 10th member of Caterforce, strengthening the buying group's reach and offering. The wholesaler has also entered the fresh meat category through a new partnership with HG Walter and secured additional supplier deals ahead of Christmas, supporting Caterforce’s expanding network across the UK.
The Department of Agriculture invests £7.7 million over four years in the Horticulture Pilot Scheme, targeting innovation, sustainability, and training to strengthen the sector amid regulatory and market pressures.
The AHDB’s 2025 British pork campaign reframes pork as a lean, affordable, and quick-to-cook protein appealing to Gen Z and health-conscious shoppers, supported by widespread media and in-store promotions alongside education programmes to secure pork’s place in modern UK diets.
ONE SeedPod, a £27m industry hub on SRUC's Craibstone Campus, has opened to boost high-value food and drink manufacturing, offering collaborative kitchens, development spaces, and business support. The first tenant, Vanilla Farms, exemplifies the facility’s innovation and sustainability focus.
Ethiopia’s Green Legacy programme has broadened its reach by donating thousands of tree seedlings to Nigeria, marking a strategic shift from national reforestation to Pan-African collaboration aimed at enhancing climate resilience and sustainable development across the continent.
Sourdough bread now accounts for 1 in 13 loaves sold as Tesco reports a 40% volume rise, while Jason’s Sourdough boosts production amid 132% value growth, reflecting a major shift in British consumer taste towards artisanal and additive-free breads.
Asda has brought back its iconic ‘That’s Asda Price’ slogan in a new £multi-channel campaign highlighting major price reductions across thousands of products as it seeks to solidify its position as the UK’s lowest-priced traditional supermarket amidst intensifying grocery sector competition.
Asda has introduced rare golden raspberries grown by Bruce Farms in Perthshire, available for a limited time in select UK stores. This first-of-its-kind launch showcases a local collaboration with Scotty Brand, supporting Scottish farmers and offering consumers a distinctive seasonal product.
HALT, a vibrant new street food market, opens July 8, 2025 at the former Europa Buscentre, featuring popular local vendor Bodega Bagels. Part of the Weavers Cross regeneration scheme, the project aims to rejuvenate the city centre and create up to 40 jobs.
Demand for premium, nutritious sausages with transparent ingredients and adventurous flavours is accelerating. Leading brands like Applegate and Dietz & Watson innovate with lean proteins, artisanal blends, sustainable packaging, and convenient formats, reflecting evolving consumer preferences beyond traditional sausage varieties.
A major new study involving 2,655 farms across 11 countries shows diversified agriculture enhances biodiversity, social wellbeing and food security, winning a $1m Frontiers Planet Prize for sustainable farming research.
Sainsbury’s launches Occasions by Sainsbury’s, a fully integrated service offering bespoke food and essentials for parties and celebrations, simplifying entertaining by allowing customers to order bespoke dishes alongside regular groceries.
Bidfood Scotland boosts its commitment to local sourcing by appointing Steph Johnstone as regional sourcing manager, expanding Scottish product lines to over 500, enhancing e-commerce platforms, and supporting supplier growth to widen distribution across the UK.
Healthy snack trends in 2025 reveal a surge in personalised plant-based protein bars, adaptogen-infused products, and sustainable, fibre-rich options like tahini-oatmeal bars. Consumers prioritise nutrition, functionality and environmental ethics, signalling a major shift in snack industry innovation and eating habits.
Sainsbury’s posts a strong start to 2025, increasing grocery sales by 5% and expanding its Aldi Price Match to 800 products across supermarkets and convenience stores, driving its highest UK market share since 2015 and sharp growth in premium ranges and digital channels.
Canadian giant Sofina Foods acquires Northern Ireland’s Finnebrogue, boosting its European footprint and product range, including plant-based and natural ingredient lines, as Finnebrogue celebrates a new brand identity and surpasses £200m revenue.
Coffee overtakes tea as Britain’s preferred hot drink with 533 million packs sold in 2023. The surge is driven by younger consumers and on-the-go purchases, while cafés evolve into social and lifestyle hubs focused on premium food and innovative drink offerings.
Compartés has launched a bold Gourmet Tomato Chocolate Bar, blending sun-ripened tomatoes with award-winning chocolate to craft a strikingly savoury-sweet bar. This creation advances flavour innovation, appealing to adventurous palates and elevating artisan gift and wine pairing experiences.
The UK functional drinks market has grown by 34% year-on-year to £178m, propelled by Gen Z seeking healthier alternatives. Retailers aim to simplify messaging and enhance shopper education amid strong innovation and rising demand across grocery and convenience sectors.
Rising food prices in the UK have surged to a 15-month peak as an unprecedented heatwave severely damages crop yields, exacerbating supply chain costs and import dependency. Retailers warn this climate-driven inflation, combined with increased labour expenses, threatens consumer spending and complicates monetary policy decisions.
The Co-op leads Europe’s rapid adoption of electronic shelf labels, targeting 1,500 UK stores by the end of 2025 to boost pricing agility, reduce paper waste and improve operational efficiency amid global retailer shifts.
Japanese-style sweets like mochi ice cream and M&S’s strawberry sando are gaining traction across UK supermarkets, boosted by TikTok virality and consumers seeking joyful, texturally rich treats amid global food fusion trends.
New clinical trial findings reveal that adopting a low-fat, plant-based diet rich in whole soybeans reduces hot flashes by up to 88%, improves sleep and mood, and aids weight loss, offering a safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women.
A UK charity report reveals that school food standards drive high consumption of processed meats among children, raising health and environmental concerns. Resistance to reducing meat intake highlights cultural and economic tensions in shifting towards sustainable, plant-based diets.
The UK is witnessing rapid growth in dairy-free coffee creamers driven by health, ethics and flavour innovation. With market value set to hit nearly $937 million by 2028, non-dairy creamers like oat, almond and soy are reshaping British coffee habits amid rising vegan and flexitarian lifestyles.
Tesco has boosted Scotch beef volumes by 23% and plans 100% Scottish fresh salmon sourcing by Spring 2026, investing £30 million into the Scottish economy and reinforcing long-term partnerships with local farmers amid rising consumer demand.
Woods Foodservice has entered the fresh meat category for the first time, partnering exclusively with premium butcher HG Walter to supply high-quality British sausages, bacon and burgers, with plans to expand into fresh meat cuts, responding to rising demand for local, premium produce.
Aldi introduces reduced payment terms for smaller fresh produce suppliers in the UK to help manage cash flow during challenging weather conditions, extending support through 2025 as part of its commitment to local businesses and food safety standards.
UK ice cream sales rose 3% to £1.6 billion in the year to May 2025, boosted by demand for exotic flavours, premium products, and free-from options, with out-of-home consumption and social media-friendly formats appealing strongly to younger consumers.
Generation Z’s evolving priorities around sustainability, health, and digital engagement are radically transforming packaged-food purchasing habits, challenging brands to offer authentic, quality products that align with their values and convenience needs amid shifting loyalty patterns.
Dutch company PulpVision has introduced thermoformed moulded fibre punnets to UK growers, packers and retailers, providing a recyclable, compostable and plastic-free packaging option designed to integrate with automated lines and improve sustainability in fresh fruit and vegetable supply chains.
The global onion dips market is forecast to grow from USD 1.5 billion in 2024 to USD 2.4 billion by 2032, driven by innovations in health-focused formulations, expanding online sales, and increasing adoption in Asia-Pacific. Major players are responding with new plant-based and convenience products despite challenges in refrigeration and ingredient scrutiny.
The food and beverage industry in 2025 is embracing bold flavour mashups combining sweet, heat and sour, primal fire-based cooking methods, and intricate global fusion dishes. Non-alcoholic drinks and tech-driven innovation are reshaping menus, reflecting consumers’ appetite for complex, healthful, and adventurous taste experiences.
Julian Metcalfe, founder of Pret A Manger and itsu CEO, is driving itsu's rapid growth across the UK, Europe, and US, focusing on nutritious, affordable Asian-inspired fast food and expanding both restaurant and grocery sales to challenge traditional fast-food giants by 2030.
Efishient Protein has developed a plant-based grouper fillet aimed at large-scale food producers, replicating traditional fish texture while ensuring safety and sustainability. This launch marks a notable expansion in alternative seafood designed to meet growing consumer demand for ethical and toxin-free options.
Sugar prices have fallen to their lowest levels since June 2021, driven by higher yields in Brazil, India, and Thailand. While benefiting manufacturers, ongoing climate risks and production shifts keep the market outlook uncertain over the coming months.
Celebrating half a decade of partnership with Lulu Retail Group, Morrisons has showcased British culinary delights across 260 stores in the Gulf, strengthening its foothold in the GCC through engaging events and tailored local offerings.
Facing economic and consumer pressures in Europe and South Africa, Spar Group has withdrawn from UK and Swiss markets to focus on ambitious growth in Ireland, targeting 50 new stores and a strategic product revamp amid fierce competition.
Irish meat producer Clonakilty Food Co expands its UK presence with new Blackpudding six-pack sausages and Dry Cure Back Bacon now available on Ocado, capitalising on booming sales and rising demand for traditional Irish flavours.
As the dairy packaging market nears $51 billion value, companies are prioritising reclosable and flexible packaging to enhance product safety, consumer convenience, and sustainability, driven by rising spoilage risks and eco-conscious buyer preferences.
The continent’s foodservice market grows steadily, driven by frozen foods, increasing demand for ethnic cuisines, and a surge in online delivery, with QSRs and contract caterers dominating as consumer habits shift towards convenience and diverse dining experiences.
Sainsbury’s is testing electronic shelf-edge labels in its Witney and Epsom stores, joining a growing number of UK retailers adopting digital price tags to improve efficiency and sustainability, potentially marking the end of paper labelling in supermarkets.
Deli Kitchen, winner of multiple Quality Food Awards, introduces six new globally inspired bakery products at Tesco, appealing to health-conscious and adventurous consumers while driving expansion in the £846 million 'bakery beyond core bread' market segment.
Marks & Spencer, winner of The Quality Food Awards' Own Label Range of the year accolade last year, launch of its ‘Only Ingredients’ range reflects growing consumer demand for simpler products amid concerns over ultra-processed foods, but nutrition experts warn that ingredient minimalism risks overlooking essential nutrient fortification.
QFA Own Label of the Year 2023 winner, Waitrose, launches a ‘Borrow a Free Cup’ trial allowing MyWaitrose members to borrow reusable coffee cups via loyalty card, strengthening its commitment to sustainability and reducing disposable cup waste while enhancing its loyalty programme.
The UK functional drinks market has soared by 54% year-on-year, led by Gen Z consumers swapping coffee and alcohol for vitamin, probiotic, and collagen-fortified beverages. This shift reshapes consumption, business strategies, and wellness habits amid growing gut health awareness and viral social media influence.
2025 entry deadline: midnight Friday 13 June 2025
Private labels now constitute over 30% of sales across Europe, empowering retailers with higher margins, supply chain control, and customer loyalty, while redefining traditional vendor relationships amid pricing wars and sustainability trends.
Spanish food and drink exports to the UK surged to €5.1 billion in 2024, making the UK Spain's fifth-largest non-EU market. Despite Brexit challenges, trade has grown 25% over five years, with the upcoming Taste Spain London event boosting industry ties and showcasing Spanish culinary excellence.
New Chicory data reveals that 46% of Gen Z are cooking more at home, utilising online recipes and seeking affordable protein sources like beans and tofu, as they navigate economic challenges and seek cost-effective ways to enjoy favourite meals.
Quality Food Award winner Jason’s Sourdough invests £36 million in Leicester to double production and create 380 jobs, marking a major milestone in its growth trajectory as it aims to become the UK's fifth-largest bread brand with innovative products and sustainable collaborations.
Scotland’s shellfish sector has achieved a record-breaking 11,690 tonnes of common mussel production in 2024, driven by growth in Shetland and reflecting ongoing economic and ecological significance despite employment fluctuations, highlighting opportunities and challenges for sustainable industry development.
New research reveals a shift in British summer picnics, with hummus, fruit kebabs, and charcuterie boards overtaking pork pies and chicken drumsticks. Mediterranean dips and healthier options are rising in popularity, reflecting changing tastes and international influences on outdoor dining habits.
Award-winning caterer Searcys launches corporate summer menus featuring British, seasonal produce sourced from 47 ethical suppliers, with plant-based options rising to 25% by 2025, alongside exclusive English sparkling wine and new iconic city venues for alfresco events.
Entering awards isn’t just about trophies! We’ve put together a quick guide on how entering awards can elevate your brand. Take a look - this could be your best business move...
Bidfood has updated its Unlock Your Menu support hub with new tools and expert advice to help hospitality operators tackle soaring inflation, labour shortages, and rising National Living Wage and NI costs, offering tailored solutions to boost profitability and operational resilience.
From 1 October 2025, the UK will ban junk food adverts on children’s TV before 9 p.m. and paid online promotions, aiming to cut 7.2 billion calories annually and prevent 20,000 obesity cases, though food brands warn it risks impacting festive food advertising.
Entrepreneurs Hernán Hernández and Marta Maneja launch Gloop, offering chocolate and oat-flavoured edible cutlery to reduce plastic waste, particularly in the ice cream and fast-food sectors, amid growing global efforts to replace single-use plastics with eco-friendly solutions.
Waitrose has launched a 65-item summer range featuring hot honey, responding to a 28% surge in demand. The collection includes unique dishes like Hot Honey Chicken Bites and collaborations with Rowse Honey, blending sweet and spicy flavours amplified by AI-driven menu innovation.
HMP Northumberland’s Oswin Project revitalises its image with a 5-star farm shop and café operated by inmates, offering local produce and baked goods. The project aids prisoner rehabilitation through training, helping nearly 200 secure employment and reduce reoffending, fostering community safety and sustainable reintegration.
Tesco has joined forces with Cancer Research UK, the British Heart Foundation, and Diabetes UK to urge the UK Government to require mandatory reporting on healthier food sales, aiming to tackle obesity costs to the NHS and improve public health through greater transparency.
Back by popular demand, the Judges’ Choice Award is making a highly anticipated return for the 2025 Quality Food Awards.
The sunniest and warmest April in a century has triggered an unprecedented strawberry surplus across the UK, prompting Tesco to slash prices by nearly half and expand local sourcing to support farmers amid climate-driven shifts in agriculture.
Marks & Spencer is pioneering early-season British Tenderstem broccoli and cutting methane emissions from dairy farms as part of its revamped Plan A programme. The retailer aims for net-zero emissions by 2040, combining innovative farming techniques with sustainable logistics and livestock initiatives to reduce carbon footprint and boost local sourcing.
The UK beverage market is experiencing a surge in prebiotic-infused products, including carbonated drinks and kombucha, driven by consumer demand for gut health and reduced sugar options. Innovations in ingredient formulation and regulatory support are further accelerating this shift towards functional, health-focused drinks.
The UK plant-based frozen food sector valued at £942m in 2023 shows a natural volume dip, while flexitarianism fuels demand for varied, globally inspired meat-free options. Innovations cater to mainstream tastes, reflecting a maturing market beyond rapid growth phases.
Waitrose will introduce 18 new brands by May through its £2m BrandsNew programme, boosting founder-led startups and sustainable products like Freja bone broth and Gipsy Hill brewery to meet evolving consumer demand.
UK grocery price inflation has risen to 4.1%, the highest since February 2024, driven by increased minimum wage and payroll taxes. This surge is impacting consumer behaviour, with growing demand for premium own-label products and widening food insecurity concerns across households.
Lidl is redesigning packaging on over 60 less healthy children’s products to eliminate cartoon characters and playful designs, aiming to foster healthier eating habits and comply with impending regulations in Spain and the UK. The retailer’s proactive approach combines advertising limits, product reformulation, and Nutri-Score labelling to lead the industry towards responsible marketing and childhood obesity prevention.
The UK’s roasted decaffeinated coffee market shows signs of resurgence in 2024 with consumption recovering to 3,300 tons and a 39% value increase. Growth is driven by soaring imports from Italy and Switzerland, while exports to the Netherlands more than double, signalling evolving market dynamics.
Tesco is trialling next-generation QR codes on select own-brand meat and produce, aiming to improve date accuracy, reduce waste, and link shoppers to detailed product information. This pioneering UK retail project, supported by GS1 UK, could revolutionise supply chain transparency and consumer engagement.
A recent poll shows nearly half of British consumers refuse American beef imports, driven by fears over hormone use and low welfare standards. Despite a new trade deal allowing US beef entry, loyalty to British meat and safety concerns pose major barriers for American exporters.
The High Pressure Processing (HPP) food market, valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2024, is forecast to expand to USD 10.1 billion by 2033, driven by consumer demand for cleaner, safer food. Asia-Pacific is expected to outpace other regions with a 10% CAGR amid rising food safety standards.
The rise of yellow price stickers in UK supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury's and Asda highlights how colour psychology fuels shopper urgency and food waste reduction, as more customers seek bargains in response to the escalating cost of living.
Oseyo, the UK’s largest Korean supermarket, has revitalised a quiet section of New Street with unique Asian products, cultural experiences, and viral treats, drawing a diverse crowd and signalling growing UK demand for immersive and authentic Asian retail spaces.
The plant-based market is shifting away from processed meat alternatives as sales decline. Companies like Unilever and Beyond Meat reformulate products and adjust strategies, while demand for fresher, whole food options and vegan egg substitutes rises amid health concerns and economic pressures.
TUCO has integrated My Emissions’ carbon footprint calculations and A–E labelling into its e-procurement platform, enabling chefs, buyers and sustainability teams to monitor and reduce food-related emissions across nearly 600 campus sites.
Iceland Foods is expanding its own-label Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certified seafood range from eight to over 25 products by 2026, enhancing sustainable options including whole prawns, alongside holding the highest MSC-certified UK supermarket ranking and boosting dual-labelled ready meal sales.
Morrisons is transforming its UK stores under the 'Morrisons Magic' strategy, introducing a fresher farm shop atmosphere, premium products, and sustainability initiatives to enhance customer appeal and meet evolving shopping habits.
Aldi Scotland is set to expand its range of local products by inviting Scottish food and drink producers to the Royal Highland Show, underlining its commitment to supporting homegrown talent and sustainable sourcing across its Scottish stores.
Simply Lunch, the UK’s trusted partner in food to go solutions, is excited to introduce the MADE range
- designed for operators seeking premium, handmade food offerings that deliver exceptional quality
and customer satisfaction.
Monmouthshire County Council is expanding its groundbreaking Welsh Veg in Schools project, serving over 200,000 portions of local organic vegetables across Wales while fostering food resilience, supporting local farmers, and aligning with government nutrition policies.
Freshr secures major investment from Diamond Edge Ventures and Nàdarra Ventures to develop FreshrPack, an antimicrobial, biodegradable fish packaging that extends shelf life by up to 30%, aiming to reduce food waste and environmental impact in the global seafood supply chain.
World Food Photography Awards sponsored by Tenderstem® winners announced
The flake salt market is experiencing rapid growth driven by rising consumer demand for gourmet flavours and textures in everyday and convenience foods, with North America, Europe, and Asia leading expansion despite challenges like lower mineral content and artisanal production costs.
The algae oil market, valued at $1.9 billion in 2022, is projected to grow to $5.2 billion by 2033, driven by rising consumer demand for Omega-3 rich, plant-based alternatives and sustainable production methods, despite cost and scalability challenges.
Scientists at The James Hutton Institute highlight the potential of Epichloë fungus in enhancing UK crop resilience against pests and drought, reducing chemical pesticide use. Experts urge strict regulation to ensure safe integration amid rising climate pressures and evolving agricultural challenges.
New research reveals 90% of Scottish shoppers prefer local beef, lamb, and pork over imports, even if the latter are cheaper, highlighting strong support for local farmers amid rising economic and ecological concerns and calls for investment to boost Scotland’s beef sector.
Zoono Group has signed an exclusive deal with UK packaging firm Sharpak to integrate innovative shelf-life extension technology into soft fruit packaging, aiming to reduce food waste and boost sustainability in major UK supermarkets by 2026.
Carlsberg Britvic, formed after Carlsberg’s £3.3bn acquisition of Britvic, plans to expand its soft drinks portfolio through further acquisitions and brand nurturing, capitalising on growing demand from younger consumers and synergies across drinks categories to drive long-term growth.
The snacking sector experiences its first decline in demand since COVID-19 lockdowns as rising edible oil prices and a lack of innovation curb consumer spending. Shifts towards smaller brands and pack sizes reflect tighter budgets in FY25, signalling a significant market correction.
With an ageing population facing nutritional challenges, insect protein emerges as a sustainable alternative to traditional meats, offering high-quality nutrition with lower environmental impact. Overcoming consumer reluctance through education, innovation, and regulation is key to mainstream acceptance in diets.
Hamlyns of Scotland partners with social media chef Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, to create recipe videos and competitions. This collaboration coincides with Hamlyns’ launch of sustainable paper packaging, highlighting a shared commitment to traditional Scottish produce and eco-friendly food practices.
2025 is shaping up as the summer of the posh crisp, with British shoppers craving gourmet and exotic flavours like fried-egg and black truffle. High-end brands and restaurants are elevating crisps into a chic dining experience, while nostalgic favourites also enjoy a resurgence among younger consumers.
The protein bar market is projected to grow from $5.15 billion in 2024 to $7.36 billion by 2029, powered by rising demand for plant-based options, personalised nutrition, and online sales, with Asia-Pacific emerging as the fastest-growing region amid expanding health awareness.
Irish oat miller and winner of two 2024 Quality Food Awards, White's Oats, has secured new partnerships with Lulu Hypermarket and Qatar Quality Products, listing multiple products and projecting a £500,000 annual turnover boost as it targets rapid expansion amid soaring demand for oat-based breakfast foods in the Middle East.
A GlobalData report highlights six dairy ingredients and flavours poised to shape 2025, including gianduja chocolate in Australia, hojicha in the US, and pistachio butter in the Middle East. Growing demand for healthful, adventurous taste experiences signals a new era in dairy product development.
The 2024 Natural & Organic Products Expo fused two major awards, spotlighted new trends like plant-based aquatic ingredients, and launched The Artisan Food & Drink Expo, showcasing sustainable sourcing and diverse newcomers, with Growth marked by 898 first-time exhibitors and a venue move to Islington planned for 2026.
Massive Attack’s 2025 UK arena show at Co-op Live will feature the venue’s first entirely vegan menu, aligning with its sustainability features like solar panels and zero landfill waste, marking a landmark collaboration in eco-friendly live entertainment.
Botivo has collaborated with chef Yotam Ottolenghi to create a limited edition botanical aperitivo featuring black lime, pomegranate molasses, and cardamom. Crafted using traditional Oxymels techniques, this drink highlights Middle Eastern flavours and is available at Ottolenghi delis and online for £32 per 500ml bottle.
New research reveals 89% of British consumers expect Cornish pasties to contain British meat, reflecting rising demand for authenticity, transparency, and sustainability in food sourcing as artisan brands like Phat Pasty Co lead the way.
The Havsbondens kök initiative is promoting the tasty integration of seaweed and mussels into diets, expanding marine farming access in Sweden. This sustainable approach supports ecosystems, reduces emissions, and offers new economic opportunities for coastal communities.
The Food and Drink Federation’s latest report reveals 41% of UK manufacturers cutting investment due to rising production costs and new government levies, with a sharp drop in export orders and growing concerns over Brexit-related trade barriers impacting sector growth and stability.
London: Sales of Spanish chorizo in the UK have surged to €104 million in 2024, propelled by rising demand for premium cured meats and a 28% export increase. The EU-backed EUChorizo campaign aims to deepen consumer engagement and highlight quality and traceability over the next three years.
Iceland Foods, a well-known frozen food retailer in the UK, is making significant strides in enhancing its retail media capabilities through a strategic partnership with the specialised agency, Gig Retail. This collaboration aims to expand Iceland’s retail media offerings across its high street stores and The Food Warehouse, tapping into the vast audience that visits the retailer each month—over nine million shoppers.
Consumer demand for protein-rich dairy products is accelerating, driven by younger generations prioritising nutrition and convenience. Brands are launching innovative high-protein options, while plant-based alternatives grow, creating a diverse protein market focused on health, immunity, and sustainability.
Kraft Heinz has introduced its Flavor Tour line featuring Mexican, Korean, and Thai-inspired sauces made with authentic ingredients. The launch reflects a wider industry trend for globally influenced, premium, and health-conscious condiments meeting growing consumer appetite for adventurous home dining.
The newly launched Scottish Ocean Cluster, backed by nearly 60 organisations, aims to triple marine resource value through biotech and zero waste. At Seafood Expo Global, the sector unveiled the Scottish Quality Langoustine scheme to promote premium standards and strengthen Scotland’s global seafood reputation.
Lower House Farm in Llanfair Discoed has generated £17,330 from a pumpkin pick-your-own venture, with plans for sunflower cultivation next year, supported by Farming Connect to diversify income amid challenges like weed control and wet weather.
A new Can Makers UK survey reveals over 65% of consumers now see cans as the most circular and recyclable packaging. With 90% having purchased canned drinks last year, premium designs and expanding sectors like canned wine are accelerating this eco-conscious shift.
