IFE, the ultimate sourcing and networking event for retailers, wholesalers, and hospitality professionals, has marked a successful 2025 edition with thousands of food & drink products on show and countless business connections made.  

Taking place as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week at Excel London on 17-19 March, the event brought together thousands of industry professionals to explore the latest food & drink innovations across categories such as Chilled & Frozen, Bakery, Snacks & Confectionery, Fresh Produce, Grocery & Wholesale, Health, Organic & Natural, and Speciality Food.  

Visitors had the opportunity to sample new products, connect with suppliers, and gain valuable insights into industry trends through a dynamic schedule of discussions and tastings. 

IFE also partnered with Tesco for 2025 to run an exclusive Meet the Buyer event for food & drink brands, and worked with TickEat for a special lunch with travel buyers.  

New product launches and startup innovation 

IFE’s Startup Market showcased innovative new and emerging UK brands such as All the Aunties paneer, Wriggle cricket protein burgers, Krocus & Co.’s premium saffron tea range, and CHIMMY's array of chimichurri sauces.  

In the New Products Tasting Theatre, startups pitched their product ranges live over the three days, and special showcase sessions were held by organisations like FICT - Les Entreprises Françaises de Charcuterie Traiteur and Isle of Man and Free From Food Awards. 

The show was abuzz with exciting international products making their UK debut, including Di Marco Pinsa Romana, social media sensation Hot Chip, French tacos from Frima and CANS’ refreshing new take on soft drinks. Plus, The Fynoderee Distillery launched a signature isle of Man gin exclusively at IFE and Action Foods showcased a new premium quality range – The Smiling Cook – at this year’s event. 

Harneet Arora, Director at A&A Distribution Ltd, commented: “Attending IFE in London was a great experience as usual, allowing us to explore emerging trends, connect with key industry players, and discover exciting innovations in the market.” 

On IFE's Future Food stage, thought leaders explored trends that are shaping the industry.  

Public health expert Dolly van Tulleken was an early highlight, delivering a keynote on how meaningful change in food policy can create lasting health benefits, improve nutrition and reduce the strain on the UK’s healthcare system.  

Meanwhile, panel discussions covered topics such as online shopping as a predictor of food & drink trends, the role of accelerators and incubators in shaping the industry's future, and the ongoing debate over the classification of ultra-processed foods and changing consumer perceptions. 

Jonas Garcia, Managing Director of La Colombia, commented: “I had a great time at IFE, looking for new suppliers for international buyers and importers. The show hosted a mix of brands across different sectors, all in one place, making it easy to discover new products. Always a solid event to expand your network and stay ahead of the curve, especially as the UK remains a key gateway to the rest of Europe in terms of trends.” 

Jean Rossignol, Senior Buyer Dairy & Beverage at Classic Fine Foods, added: "Once again, such a diverse range of brands at IFE this year. So much variety and choice and beautiful products and new tech. The speakers and panel discussions were really insightful too. I would like to thank the team for consistently exceeding expectations for IFE. This fair has now turned into a necessary visit for all traders based within the UK. Keep up the amazing work IFE." 

As IFE 2025 concludes, the event reaffirms its status as the ultimate sourcing and networking platform in the UK food & drink industry. With its blend of innovative product launches, insightful discussions, and dynamic networking opportunities, IFE continues to drive the future of the sector. 

For more information on next year’s event and to register your interest, please visit ife.co.uk. IFE 2026 takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC, Hospitality Tech 360, and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week on 30 March – 1 April at Excel London.