IFE, along with sister events taking place as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, once again partnered with London-based charity City Harvest to rescue surplus food from the event and redistribute it to more than 375 charities across the capital. 

Free food, delivered by City Harvest to its community partners, brings more than nutritious value to Londoners in need: it frees up budgets for other social investments to support and enrich the lives and well-being of those most in need.

IFE Event Manager Federico Dellafiore commented: "We were delighted to continue our partnership with City Harvest this year and ensure that surplus food at our events isn't wasted, but is instead delivered to those most in need. Thanks to the team at City Harvest and to all the exhibitors at the show who take the time to donate food to such a worthwhile cause."

Ben Logue, Food Sourcing Manager at City Harvest, added: "Working with [IFE organiser] Montgomery Group at IFE to collect and redistribute edible surplus is one of our highlights of the year. This year alone, 8.9 tonnes of food was collected - the equivalent of 21,397 meals - demonstrating the positive impact that donations from large scale events can have on communities in need and also the environment. Thank you, Montgomery Group, for your continued support and for helping to rescue food, people and planet; we can't wait for IFE 2025! 

Among the numerous companies who donated surplus food to the charity this year were Jude's, Doughboys and La Tua Pasta. 

Luke Buckmaster, Sales & Marketing Director, Doughboys: "Partnering with City Harvest after the show meant we were able to donate over 40+ pizzas/ 320 slices which will not only give a wholesome meal to some of the most vulnerable in our community but will help to bring people together. For us, it’s not just about giving food, it’s about spreading smiles and helping to build a brighter future – even if it is one slice at a time."

Al French, Senior Relationship Manager, Jude's: "Jude's is a committed B-Corp and we strongly support City Harvest's mission to combat hunger and food insecurity. We share City Harvest's goal rescuing surplus food to aid those in need, reducing food waste, and supporting vulnerable people."

Bradlee Moore, Design & Marketing Manager, La Tua Pasta: "We're delighted to partner with City Harvest in our mission to combat food waste and support our local community. We take immense pride in contributing to City Harvest's efforts to alleviate food poverty by providing high-quality, minimally processed food. Together, we're making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need."