Artisan food and drink event, the Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2023, is gearing-up for its return in the UK this autumn, including offering a range of intriguing confectionery innovations, reports Neill Barston.

The event takes place at Olympia, London, between 11-12 September, focuses on new product launches right across the sector, targeting the fine food, independent retailer and hospitality market segments.

Notably, the show features a core of British produce, which will be supplemented by a total of 30 countries including South Korea, Samoa, Australia and Italy.

Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the very latest new products in the Fair’s Start-Up Village, where up-and-coming businesses and innovative food & drink startups will be showcased. Significantly, this includes more than 50 emerging companies – including one specialising in plant-based milk chocolate-coated almonds.

Highlights of this year’s speaker programme, taking place in the Trends Theatre, include a session by Waitrose & Partners Innovations Manager Lizzie Haywood, who will be offering five top tips for retail success, and a deep dive into the 2023 Future Food Trends Tracker with Charles Banks of thefoodpeople and Kelly Dowson of F!S Group.

Vhari Russell, Managing Director of The Food Marketing Experts, Louis Bedwell, Managing Director of Mission Ventures and Alexander Mair, Founder & Managing Director of All In A Box, will also be joining forces to discuss the current state of NPD, and whether recent product launches are prioritising novelty over the genuine needs of the consumer.

Bedwell comments: “Speciality and Fine Food Fair is the leading event in the industry for the discovery of the top brands of tomorrow. The best new brands meet an important consumer need.

“As issues of sustainability and health become more important, it’s great to see the benefits of great new product development and how it can solve challenges for both industry and consumer. I’m looking forward to taking part in the discussion.”

Furthermore, culinary consultant and chef Steve Walpole will be welcoming a host of industry experts to explore the latest trends, flavours and opportunities in global cuisine and using a range of products from the Fair to cook up some delicious dishes.

Walpole will be covering topics including how to celebrate sustainability in the kitchen, going back to basics with natural products, showcasing the best of British, and demystifying Japanese ingredients. To register for a complimentary trade ticket, visit specialityfinefoodfairs.co.uk.