UPFs, AI and revolutionising retail to top the agenda at IFE 2025

IFE 2025, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, is set to return to Excel London on 17-19 March, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for a packed and diverse programme of thought-provoking content.  

Central to the event is the Future Food stage, where an array of panel discussions will delve into the pressing issues and transformative trends shaping the future of the sector. 

Among the highlights of the seminar programme is a timely discussion on ultra-processed foods (UPFs). The session, titled ‘Ultra-Processed Foods: Do We Need a Tighter Definition?’, will explore the evolving debate around UPFs and the implications for product development and consumer understanding.  

Moderated by Siân Yates of FoodBev Media, the panel features experts from across the industry, including Jessica Stansfield of Huel, Kerri Fidler of Greencore, Peter Noy from the Food Systems Institute at the University of Nottingham, and Sarah Bull of Bakkavor. 

Another key session, ‘State of the Vegan-nation', will address the rapid growth of the vegan and plant-based market, examining how brands, retailers, and consumers are adapting to this shift. Freya O'Mara from Ocado will moderate the discussion, with contributions from Indy Kaur of Plant Futures, Karen Spinner of the Vegan Society, and Toni Vernelli of Veganuary.  

Spinner comments: “IFE is a fantastic opportunity for brands, buyers and retailers to discover the latest innovation and trends in the vegan and plant-based sector. As the market continues to evolve and reach new consumers, I'm delighted to have the opportunity to take part in what promises to be a lively and informative panel discussion.  

“As the world's leading vegan certification standard, the Vegan Trademark has unique insight into how the market is developing – and how brands need to position their products to resonate with an ever-growing audience.” 

Innovation will also take centre stage with the session ‘Revolutionising Retail: How Accelerators and Incubators are Shaping the Future’. Moderated by Theadora Alexander of YF, the panel will feature Andrew Allen from Bidfood and Melanie Harris from Iceland, exploring how these programmes are enabling emerging brands to scale, innovate, and thrive in an increasingly competitive market. 

Harris comments: “Excited to join this event and discuss how Brands On Ice is at the forefront of bringing innovation to Iceland shoppers, and the success and future opportunities within this accelerator.” 

As the importance of digital channels continues to grow, the discussion ‘Online Shopping as a Trend Predictor in the Food & Drink Industry’ promises to offer valuable insights into how online shopping data can forecast trends and drive product innovation. Moderated by Debbie Davies of Contigo Management Limited, with panellists Louise Armour of Rosetta Brands and Stephen Minall of FDReviews, the session will challenge conventional thinking and provide actionable takeaways.  

Davies shares her excitement: "With our great panellists, this session should provide food for thought and a great debate. As always with IFE panels, we aim to challenge current thinking and spark meaningful discussions.” 

These panel discussions represent just a small selection of the rich and varied content programme planned for the Future Food stage at IFE 2025. Across three days, the stage will host a series of talks, panels, and presentations from industry thought leaders, providing attendees with unparalleled insights into emerging trends, sustainable solutions, and the future of food and drink innovation. 

New Products Tasting Theatre 

The New Products Tasting Theatre at IFE is the ultimate destination for discovering something new. It’s a chance to meet the passionate people behind our Start-Up Market brands, hear their stories, explore their product ranges, and learn about their future plans while tasting their fantastic creations.  

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore and learn with a New Product Showcase from the Isle of Man, a Charcuterie Masterclass with FICT - Les Entreprises Françaises de Charcuterie Traiteur, and a tasting with the Free From Food Awards, introducing award-winning producers and industry-leading allergy-friendly products. 

As part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, IFE 2025 will run alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC, and International Salon Culinaire, creating a comprehensive showcase of the best the industry has to offer. 

Register now at ife.co.uk for your complimentary trade ticket and join the conversation shaping the future of food and drink.