The UK’s most comprehensive showcase of F&B innovation, insight and opportunity that no business can afford to miss
Business leaders from across the grocery, hospitality, convenience retail and forecourt sectors will come together in April for three days of inspiration and networking.
The 2026 UK Food & Drink Shows, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from Monday 13 to Wednesday 15 April, comprises four shows that each target a sector of the food and drink industry:
- Food & Drink Expo is the destination for discovering fresh ideas, forging connections and gaining insights into the future of food. It attracts key foodservice buyers as well as decision-makers from retail and wholesale grocery operations.
- Farm Shop & Deli Show offers the best-quality local and regional produce alongside the latest in equipment, labelling and packaging solutions.
- National Convenience Show is the biggest event for the convenience retailing sector and is a one-stop destination for c-store specific products, services and innovations.
- Forecourt Show is the must-attend event for sourcing products, fresh ideas and smart solutions to future-proof your business.
Around 1,200 businesses will be exhibiting across the four shows, and more than 25,000 visitors are expected to attend the event to explore services and equipment that will help their businesses flourish.
Inspiring speakers and sessions
Once again, The UK Food & Drink Shows will offer a packed programme of insightful panels and expert speakers including:
- Tom Athron, CEO at Fortnum & Mason, who will talk about his plans to make the luxury retailer “more relevant” all year round to British foodies.
- Colm Johnson, retail managing director at wholesaler Booker, who will discuss the convenience retail sector and the changing needs of consumers.
- Nicole Casey, Director of Operations, Borough Market, who will be talking about their vision for one of London’s most iconic food destinations.
- Deborah Robinson, Chief Executive at Central Co-op, who is appearing on a panel of female industry leaders discussing the future of convenience retailing.
- Katie Secretan, managing director at Co-op Wholesale, who will discuss the Nisa rebrand and the opportunities it creates for independent retailers.
New for 2026
New attractions for the 2026 shows include a Spotlight on Coffee Shop & Café highlighting the latest trends and products shaping the sector, and a Spotlight on Future Foods that will showcase wellness-driven, clean-label and sustainable products.
To ensure visitors make the most of their visit, an online digital event companion will offer a comprehensive event guide, interactive floorplan and real-time notifications.
“We appreciate that retailers and suppliers continue to face intense pressure and are confident the shows can help to equip businesses with the knowledge and inspiration to grow and flourish,” said Dan Dixon, managing director of exhibitions, William Reed.
“At the heart of it all is the power of face-to-face interaction; the chance to have meaningful conversations, experience products first-hand and build relationships.”
Four shows, three days, one ticket
Visitors can register free for one show and gain access to all four events, providing access to the UK’s most comprehensive view of the food and drink industry. Register free at foodanddrinkexpo.co.uk
AT A GLANCE:
The UK Food & Drink Shows
Comprising: Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show, Forecourt Show
Monday 13 to Wednesday 15 April 2026
NEC Birmingham
