Exclusive: Adrian Ling, CEO of Plamil Foods rejoins the World Confectionery Conference

Following a key appearance at our 2024 event, Adrian Ling, CEO of Plamil Foods, is set to make a return as a speaker for our latest iteration of the World Confectionery Conference this year, reports Neill Barston.

The UK business sector leader will be joining an expanding line-up of senior executives from across the industry, which will once again place sustainability and innovation at its heart, and so far includes representatives from Ferrero, Cargill, Caobisco European trade body, and Cordillera Chocolate.

The Kent-based CEO has seen his company continue to gain notable market share within the plant-based product market, with Adrian recently creating the World Vegan Chocolate Day, which is set to be celebrated on 31 January. 

He will be among a host of industry leaders discussing major developments for the sector, as our event calls in at The View, London in September, with early bird rates for speaking and exhibiting still available for the next two months via our dedicated website, confectioneryconference.com

As we have previously covered, Plamil, which was established by Adrian Ling’s late father in the early 1960s, is regarded as an original pioneering enterprise of the vegan movement, with its leader remaining a passionate supporter of sustainable supply chains.

The man known as the ‘Vegan Willy Wonka,’ was inspired to create the global event, taking place on 31 January to celebrate vegan chocolate in all its forms, including his own company’s ever-expanding range of products, which are continuing to meet the needs of businesses across a full spectrum of outlets, including wholesale and wider retailing operations.

For his previous appearance, he discussed the family’s heritage in the industry, as well as examined challenges in supply chains, with the company continuing to champion ethical sourcing and strong industry collaboration.

Speaking on joining the event, Adrian commented: “It’s fantastic to be back speaking at the World Confectionery Conference- a truly standout event in our industry. Every year it brings together passionate professionals, fresh insights and energy that has kept our sector moving forward, even in challenging times.

“What I love most about the conference is how it blends business‑critical topics with genuine enthusiasm and debate. I’m looking forward to once again playing my part in engaging, informing, and sharing my insights into our wonderful world of chocolate.”