LATEST ARTICLES

Aldi launches ‘flat’ recycled PET wine bottles

Coinciding with Global Recycling Day (18 March), Aldi has announced the UK’s first, supermarket own-brand flat recycled PET wine bottles. The Chapter & Verse Shiraz and Chapter & Verse Chardonnay (£5.25, 75cl) will be available to buy in lightweight, fully recyclable PET bottles, in stores nationwide now. Made from 100% recycled PET, the new flat bottles weigh just 63g – making them nearly seven times lighter and stronger than a standard glass bottle, while being completely shatterproof. Removing 42 tonnes of bottle weight for this launch alone, the next-gen bottles not only make light work of heavy shopping baskets, but they also deliver impressive green credentials for eco-conscious shoppers. The compact design means 30% more bottles can be loaded onto pallets and transported to supermarkets; and converting to these innovative bottles compared to standard round glass, takes 30% of lorries off the road. Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “We know shoppers are looking for greener, more sustainable products and our aim is to continue to deliver this, whilst offering great value and enhanced functionality. We’re pleased to be taking the next step in expanding our recyclable, eco-friendly range.” Aldi has worked with Packamama on the supermarket-first initiative. The London based company is on a mission to fight against global warming by providing innovative, climate-friendly packaging for the drinks industry. Santiago Navarro, CEO & Founder of Packamama, said: “We are honoured to partner with Aldi, a true pioneer in the grocery sector, as we both lead the way in sustainable wine packaging. This collaboration delivers the much-loved Chapter & Verse in our innovative eco-flat bottles to customers, offering the perfect blend of quality, value, and sustainability.” The supermarket is also launching its Chassaux et Fils Méditerranée Rosé (£6.99, 75cl) in a recyclable PET bottle. Eight times lighter than the average 75cl glass bottle, the launch alone will help to remove 18.15 tonnes of bottle weight. Alongside the new plastic bottles, Aldi is reducing the average bottle weight of all its still wine products by 8%. The process has been started already and will be completed by 2025.

Decarbonising the food and drink manufacturing industry

Today, a staggering 34% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from food production. Whilst a large proportion of these emissions come from land use and agricultural production, the manufacturing stage alone emits over 2.4 billion tCO2e (Crippa et al). As large players in the food and drink manufacturing industry make plans for reducing emissions, it is vital to consider every way in which this can be done. Furthermore, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) estimates food production must grow by 60% by 2050 to keep up with the growing world population. With this anticipated growth in the industry, it is even more important to shift the way we manufacture food in order to meet net zero. How Can Manufacturers Increase Energy Efficiency? To reduce emissions in food manufacturing, increasing energy efficiency is key.  Upgrading motors is an excellent long-term strategy for saving energy. In regions such as Europe and China, an electric motor’s efficiency is described by its International Efficiency Class (IEC). Food & Drink International (FDI) recently noted that increasing your motor by just one class will decrease energy losses by 20%. To encourage this, IE4 is now the minimum standard in Europe for new installations. Manufacturers should consider upgrading to the most efficient motor possible to lower their energy losses. For example, upgrading from an IE3 to IE5 can help manufacturers reduce their energy losses by 40%, significantly lowering their CO2 emissions. A recent report for the Department of Climate Change highlighted the benefits of using variable speed drives (VSDs) in the food industry. Traditionally, mechanical control methods like throttles or brakes have been used to manage the speed of fans, pumps, compressors and conveyor belts. Switching to VSDs grants direct control of the motor speed and torque, which also reduces wear and tear on the motor and its machinery, increasing its longevity. This can significantly minimise energy loss – slowing down a motor by 20% can half the amount of electricity used. In fact, VSDs often recoup their cost through energy savings in less than a year, making them a straightforward and cost-effective means of boosting energy efficiency. Decarbonisation of Heat Processes  To decarbonise the heat process manufacturers must switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy for heating. Currently, gas boilers still dominate the generation of hot water, steam and hot air within the food industry. Presently, the upfront costs and low fossil fuel prices are the main barriers preventing manufacturers from implementing this change.  However, as we race towards achieving net zero emissions, an increasing number of manufacturers are realising food industry decarbonisation through the electrification of heat is crucial. Globally, as more countries continue to decarbonise their electricity grid, taking this step will continue to become more accessible and cost-effective. Making the Switch to Sustainable Refrigerants Whilst the emissions produced by the cold chain exacerbate climate change, the heating effects of climate change necessitate more cold storage. To break this cycle, we must make the cold chain more sustainable. The cold chain is often overlooked when considering greenhouse gas emitters in the food industry, but it accounts for 4% of Global Greenhouse Gas emissions – equal to that of the entire continent of Africa. Furthermore, recent reports show the UK will require an additional 785,030 m² (8.45 million ft²) of cold storage by 2025. Therefore, the need for a more efficient and sustainable cold chain is more pressing than ever.  The UN notes that one important way to make the cold chain more sustainable is by reducing non-CO2 emissions from refrigerants. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used to be the norm in the industry, until it was discovered they are an extremely potent greenhouse gas. HFC-134a, the most common sort, has a global warming potential 3400 times that of carbon dioxide. Despite 152 states, including the EU, having ratified the Kigali agreement (a pledge to massively reduce the production and use of HFCs), there is still a lot of work to be done.  As shown in the figure below, 33% of cold stores built in the last five years are still using HFCs. More positively, CO2 is gaining popularity as it is a natural refrigerant and a great green alternative. Unlike traditional synthetic refrigerants, it has a significantly lower global warming potential. Ensuring manufacturers halt the use of HFCs in refrigeration systems and choose a more sustainable option is key to making the cold chain more sustainable. 
Image source: Cold Chain Federation’s 2023 Cold Chain Report
Extend Lifespan of Food and Drink Assets Using Industrial Coatings and Composites Among these tactics, protective coatings and epoxy repair composites have a key role to perform in the decarbonisation of the food and drink industry. Opting to use coatings and composites extends the working life of machinery, equipment and structures.  Companies like Belzona offer a wide range of coatings and composites. Many of them meet national and international standards for food contact and drinking water such as approval from the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS), and Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This makes them particularly well-suited for the food and beverage industry.  In this industry, food waste is a huge contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Belzona’s fast application process minimises downtime, reducing product loss and keeping waste to a minimum. By focusing on repair and protection, Belzona helps food manufacturers operate more sustainably while also extending the lifespan of equipment. Case Study: Corrosion Protection for Drinking Water Tank This drinking water tank repair at a Food Manufacturer in Poland exemplifies Belzona’s rapid and sustainable repairs. The deterioration of the concrete within the tank was leading to poorer water quality, necessitating an urgent fix. Traditional methods, like using more concrete, would have led to a lengthy shutdown, increasing waste and incurring high costs. Moreover, this wouldn’t prevent the issue from recurring. Instead, the Customer chose to use Belzona to repair and coat the tank, providing them with a long-term solution, and a quick application time. First, the corroded walls needed to be rebuilt before a protective coating could be applied. After conditioning with Belzona 4911 (Magma TX Conditioner), the damaged areas of the substrate were rebuilt using Belzona 4111 (Magma-Quartz). Once the concrete was rebuilt, a coating needed to be applied to protect the walls of the water tank from further corrosion.
Tank after rebuilding with Belzona 4111 (Magma-Quartz)
The chosen coating was Belzona 5811DW2 (DW Immersion Grade), a 2-part epoxy coating which provides outstanding chemical resistance and is ideal for use in the food and drink industry as it is solvent-free and has WRAS approval for contact with potable water. 
Mid application of Belzona 5811DW2 (DW Immersion Grade)
First, the entire contents of the base and solidifier containers were mixed thoroughly until a uniform colour was achieved. The first coat of Belzona 5811DW2 (DW Immersion Grade), could then be spray applied to the tank. Later that day, a second coat was applied in the same manner, completing the two-coat system and ensuring maximum corrosion protection. This repair significantly extended the lifespan of this piece of equipment, showcasing Belzona’s sustainable solutions within the food and drink industry. 
Drinking water tank repaired and protected with Belzona
Reducing the Carbon Footprint of the Food Manufacturing Industry Ultimately, to achieve net-zero emissions in global food manufacturing by 2050, a multifaceted approach considering every possible strategy is key. Improving energy efficiency, switching to more sustainable energy sources and adjusting energy-intensive processes like heating and cooling to make them as sustainable as possible are just a few examples. Extending machinery and equipment lifespan via repair and protection systems, such as those offered by Belzona, is a key strategy for food manufacturers who are working towards reducing their environmental footprint. Want to learn more about Belzona’s solutions for the Food and Drink Industry? Click Here to Learn More

Machine Vision Conference will host an impressive range of exhibitors and seminars

The two-day Machine Vision Conference opens in just over three months’ time on 18th June at the CBS Arena in Coventry. MVC is recognised as the leading event for the latest cutting-edge industrial vision in the UK and features a vast array of the latest machine vision technology as well as an outstanding seminar programme. This provides a perfect platform for visitors to discover the innovative industrial vision and imaging technologies, learn from the industry experts at the excellent seminars, and network with over thousand visitors expected in June. The MVC’s engaging seminar programme is a perfect place to be captivated with all machine vision industry future developments, learn about latest trends, and soak in the knowledge shared by the experts delivering a bumper selection of inspiring presentations. Some of the key topics to be discussed within the content rich seminar programme, includes deep learning and embedded vision, vision in robotics, understanding vision technology, systems and applications, 3D vision, camera technology, optics and illumination, and vision innovation. These sessions will provide visitors with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to take away and explore how this knowledge can be used to deliver benefits to their business. The MVC exhibitors have a brilliant opportunity to present on the above topics whilst at the same time capture the attention of potential buyers and visitors with their expertise. Those exhibitors interested in this opportunity should contact the organisers via the MVC website. MVC is renowned for bringing the whole vision industry together, so in between fascinating seminar sessions there will be plenty to explore and experience. Over 50 well-known companies will be showcasing their most innovative products and services, including fascinating demonstrations and exciting product launches. They will be eager to discuss how they can help businesses deliver improvements through adopting machine vision solutions. Here are some of the companies that will be exhibiting: Acrovision, Advanced Illumination, Allied Vision, Alrad Imaging, Balluff, Basler, Bytronic Vision Automation, Chromasens, Clearview Imaging, Computar, Emergent Vision Technologies, Flir (Thermal), Flir IIS, Get Cameras, IDS Image Development Systems, IFM Electronic, Lambda Photometrics, Lincode, LMI Technologies, Lucid, Micro-Epsilon, Navitar, Neousys, OEM Automatic, Opto Engineering, Pro-Lite Technology, Scorpion Vision, SICK, Smart Vision Lights, Specim/Spectral Imaging, SVS Vistek, Teledyne Dalsa, The Imaging Source Europe, TPL Vision, Wenglor Sensoric, and Zebra Technologies Europe. The exhibition hall at the CBS Arena will be buzzing with visitors, exhibitors and industry experts that will provide significant opportunities to network, collaborate and connect with existing and new contacts. This creates an ideal environment to establish and develop business relationships that can be very beneficial for knowledge sharing, problem solving, catching up and gaining new customers. One of last year’s MVC visitors, John Grace, Euro Head of Quality at Product Safety and R&D at Loop said: “Very good selection of companies and an opportunity to learn about new developments and find potential suppliers.” MVC is once again co-located alongside Automation UK, organised by British Automation and Robot Association (BARA), providing visitors to MVC 2024 an additional benefit of being able to visit Automation UK to find out the latest developments in the world of automation and robotics, all under one roof. The Machine Vision Conference visitor registration is open, to reserve your free ticket, click here.

Berkmann Wine Cellars expands premium portfolio with addition of EPC Champagne

Berkmann Wine Cellars is collaborating with EPC Champagne to bring a fresh approach to the consumption of Champagne across the UK. Joining the Berkmann portfolio alongside Champagne Drappier and Champagne Jacquesson, EPC Champagne brings a blend of innovation, terroir-centric craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility to Berkmann’s Champagne category. Established in 2019 by Jérôme Queige, Camille Gilardi, and Édouard Roy, EPC Champagne is committed to revolutionising the traditional Champagne process. Working with select grower partners, each EPC cuvée represents a specific terroir, taking consumers on a journey through the diverse Champagne region. Emma Dawson MW, Head of Buying for Berkmann Wine Cellars, says: “The Champagne category has seen little change in recent decades with the traditional houses still dominating the UK market. EPC is an exciting opportunity for Berkmann to bring an entirely new style of Champagne brand to this scene, and one that aims to disrupt the traditional model that has been split between the Grand Marques and smaller grower producers.” Jerome Queige, EPC Founder & CEO, says: “In our opinion, Berkmann Wine Cellars is one of the most prestigious, rigorous and respected wine distributors in Europe. As a young Champagne brand, we are proud to have had the confidence of such a player for national representation in a market as mature as the UK. We have complete confidence in EPC’s future success in the UK market, thanks to the support of their expert teams. The signing of this partnership is a major turning point for EPC Champagne.” EPC Champagne’s Cellar Master collaborates closely with grower partners, aiming to foster a true partnership model that allows growers to vinify their grapes and be compensated for the entire production process. Traditionally Grand Marques source grapes from a variety of sub-regions and blend them together to create one house style. EPC has a series of cuveés each taken from a different terroir of Champagne developed with a series of grower partners with the specific aim to allow a consumer to experience the expression of each of these terroirs all within the umbrella of their house style. EPC’s commitment to minimal intervention is evident in each cuvée, with low sugar content and minimal sulphites. A ground-breaking feature is the heat-sensitive marker on each back label, indicating the wine’s perfect serving temperature. Emma Dawson MW says: “This is an opportunity to really shake up the Champagne market in the UK, and give our customers the opportunity to move away from traditional brands and work with a new concept that is modern, sustainably-minded and backed up with serious quality credentials. “We are targeting the premium on-trade as a starting point to focus on establishing the credentials of this exciting new brand, this will offer consumers a journey of taste through the terroir of Champagne, something that no other brand is doing right now.”

ULMA Packaging welcomes new team members

Leading packaging machinery manufacturer, ULMA Packaging, has recently appointed two new members to its growing team due to continued growth – Pavils (Pav) Koltovs joins as a service technician and Jessica (Jess) Whalley as a project coordinator. Both appointments reinforce ULMA’s commitment to enhancing its service offering and the overall management of projects. Having a mechanical and electrical background within a variety of service roles, Pav brings an extensive knowledge of packaging machinery and engineering know-how to the role. He has previously worked with several companies, where he gained significant experience with vertical, traysealing and thermoforming machinery. Holding a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering and an NVQ Level 3 in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Pav’s knowledge of ULMA’s machinery, gained through previous work alongside ULMA engineers, makes him an ideal fit for his new role. He will now be visiting customers to install, maintain and repair machinery, using his expertise to ensure the highest service standards are delivered whilst working across the ULMA range. Jess brings a mix of engineering knowledge and project management skills to her role. Her varied experience, including work as a mechanical engineer, packaging technologist and national account manager in the food service sector, prepares her well for the new position. She has a strong background in working with customers, sales and managing supply chains, which makes her perfectly suited to oversee projects from start to finish. As the project coordinator, Jess will serve as the primary point of contact once an order is placed through to installation, ensuring that customers are regularly updated and supported throughout the manufacturing process. Her position is vital for ensuring the installation and commissioning process runs smoothly, which demonstrates ULMA’s commitment to continue delivering top-tier customer satisfaction. James Couldwell, managing director of ULMA Packaging, said: “We are delighted to welcome Pav and Jess to the ULMA team. Their wealth of experience and fresh perspectives are precisely what we need to drive our mission forward. Pav’s deep technical knowledge and Jess’s comprehensive approach to project coordination will significantly contribute to our commitment to providing packaging solutions of the highest standard. Their appointments signify our ongoing commitment to support the growth of the UK business.” For more information on ULMA Packaging, visit https://www.ulmapackaging.co.uk

New products in the spotlight as IFE prepares to return

IFE, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, will see hundreds of new food & drink product launches when the event returns to ExCeL London on 25-27 March. For more than 40 years IFE has been a trust product sourcing resource for retailers, wholesalers and hospitality professionals from the UK and around the world. This year’s event is divided into 14 distinct zones, with 2024 seeing the addition of the Fresh Produce Section, in partnership with the Fresh Produce Consortium, the Cheese Pavilion and the Hot Beverages Pavilion. The show will also welcome suppliers from more than 60 countries including Turkey, Thailand, France, Sri Lanka, China, Italy, Ecuador, Hungary and Cyprus. The Startup Market at this year’s event is home to 24 innovative startup food & drink brands and a must-attend for buyers eager to discover completely new products from up-and-coming suppliers. Among the companies taking part are wellness tea and superfood brand Better Food Mood, Froot Pops, supplier of chocolate-dipped raspberries, FoodHak, supplier of freshly-prepared plant-based and gluten-free dishes, and Pure Coaties, an innovative “raw” pastry comprised of date paste and gluten free oats, palm-free margarine and natural flavours, covered by milk-free chocolate sweetened by fibres from chicory roots. New product launches elsewhere at the event include:
  • ALO Drink, a leading aloe vera beverage brand in the United States and Canada will be introducing a new line of ready to drink boba teas under the brand name JENJI and available in four different flavours: Original Milk Tea, Matcha Latte, Strawberry Latte, and Brown Sugar.
  • Antipodes Gin Co. Will be bringing what the company says is Australia’s first certified organic and sustainable spirit company to IFE 2024, entering new markets in the UK and Europe and redefining the Australian spirits category.
  • Family owned Cremoloso Gelato will be launching new 460ml gelato pots at IFE this year, a Salted Amaretto with a balance of premium sea salt and Amaretto infused into a velvety gelato base.
  • Gerald McDonald Group will be launching a new Yuzu Juice NFC (not from concentrate), pressed in Japan and with a complex citrus flavour.
  • Speedibake will be on hand at the show with a new product turning heads in the foodservice market. A premium pre-baked pizza base, Scrocchiarella is light, crunchy and a perfect answer to consumer demand for healthy, high-quality snacking and on-the-go food.
  • Marigold Health Foods, known for its range of vegan Engevita® nutritional yeast flakes, bouillon, gravy, sauces, plant-based meat and fish, will be launching a new healthy snack: Popcorn Plus.
  • Canada-based Dare Foods will be launching new vegetarian crisps, popped not fried, in two distinct flavours: sea salt and ranch dressing.
  • French bakery manufacturer Bridor will be launching new Lenôtre Mini Tartelettes, made with a delicate and pure butter puff pastry and available in three flavours. 
  • Novo Farina, the only British manufacturer of pea protein ingredients, will launch quick hydrate pea mince and quick hydrate pea chunk.
IFE takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week on 25-27 March at ExCeL London. To find out more and register for your complimentary trade ticket visit ife.co.uk.

Kite Packaging launches new custom-size box tool

Kite Packaging, a leading name in the UK packaging industry, has launched its advanced custom-size box tool. By streamlining the buying process for bespoke-sized boxes, it aims to improve customer experience through increased efficiency. Available on the company’s website, this new feature gives customers the freedom to select their chosen board grade, colour and dimensions for a box based on their specific requirements. Customers can pick from four FEFCO styles, 0201, 0203, 0426 and 0427, covering 80% of most requirements with further guidance provided on the strength and construction of these. The tool then generates an instant quote based on this, with delivery of standard custom boxes and die-cut boxes shortly after samples have been approved. Features and benefits of the custom-size box tool include: – Instant quotations provided without the need for registration, simplifying the packaging procurement process. – Intuitive user interface and a one-page layout for easy navigation and input. – Flexible pricing tiers based on quantity. – Access to available stock options closely matching required dimensions. – Ability to request quotes on smaller quantities. – Convenient contact form for enquiries and requests. “We are really proud of our website and this latest feature,” says Gavin Ashe, Managing Director at Kite Packaging. “This is a fantastic tool for customers to use to get an instant quote on the most common box styles. For larger quantities and more complicated solutions, Kite’s award-winning design team are always available to help. “Our new custom-size box tool is all about saving customers time and money by giving them instant pricing and order capability, live on our web site for simple and straight forward designs.” To learn more, please visit www.kitepackaging.co.uk.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses acquires artisan cheesemaker

Fourth-generation family cheesemakers, Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses in rural Lancashire, has acquired Hampshire Cheese Company, home of much-loved soft cheeses Tunworth and Winslade, for an undisclosed sum. Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has invested significantly in its soft cheese capacity in the last two years, with own-label and branded soft cheeses like Button Mill and Kidderton Ash driving Butlers’ mission to be a powerhouse in British farmhouse soft cheese. Butlers is now the largest independent soft cheesemaker in the UK. Hampshire Cheese Company, a multi award-winning artisan cheesemaker, was founded in 2005 by Stacey Hedges and has amassed a legion of fans for Tunworth and Winslade; two expertly handcrafted, continental-style soft cheeses that are revered among some of the UK’s leading chefs, Michelin restaurants and premium independent retailers. Matthew Hall, fourth-generation owner at Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses, says: “Bringing two incredible cheeses like Tunworth and Winslade into our family is super exciting and consistent with our soft cheese strategy. “The quality and reputation that Stacey, Charlotte and the team have established for Tunworth and Winslade is something we will be proud to nurture with their loyal customers. “Over the years, Stacey has shared our mission to drive the British cheese renaissance in the UK and we are privileged to bring Tunworth and Winslade into our family, continue on that journey and get more of the amazing cheeses being made in Britain, to more people.” Butlers has maintained momentum in its soft cheese strategy as it moves on from a serious fire at its office and packing site in November 2023. The fourth-generation family cheesemakers were turning milk to cheese at the dairy within hours of the fire and ensured its range of farmhouse soft cheeses were delivered to customers in time for Christmas. Butlers’ range of blue cheeses including flagship brand, Blacksticks, were back in supply in early February. Butlers’ ownership of Hampshire Cheese Company is effective immediately.

Nestlé Smithtown factory to receive $32m investment for Milo production

Nestlé Australia has announced a $32 million investment to its Smithtown factory, which manufactures Milo – bringing investment in the site to approximately $80 million in the last decade. The investment will upgrade the Milo manufacturing line introducing state-of-the-art manufacturing technology to the factory and supporting an increased production capacity. Factory Manager James Garley said the investment in the site reflects Nestlé’s commitment to support local manufacturing. “We’re committed to investing in continuous improvements and upgrades to our Smithtown factory so we can continue to proudly make iconic brands like Milo right here. “Over the next 12 months, the project will inject an estimated $20 million into the local economy and support almost 200 jobs as we construct a new building to house Milo production. “It’s a complex project, but the team will work to ensure the facilities continue to deliver the choc-malt crunch of Milo Australians have loved for generations,” Mr Garley said. The upgrade is due to be completed by the end of 2024. The Nestlé Smithtown factory, which has been operating for over 100 years, today employs more than 200 people and produces more than 200,000 cans of Milo, as well as Nesquik, Nescafé mixes and Malted Milk.

Export insights in the spotlight at IFE 2024

IFE, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, has launched the programme for its Exporters Hub, in partnership with UK Export Academy, which will see leading figures in the world of food & drink export and international trade take to the stage to discuss the latest challenges and opportunities in the sector. Taking place on 25-27 March at ExCeL London, IFE welcomes suppliers from more than 50 countries in addition to hundreds of UK suppliers from startups to major global brands in food & drink. The show’s Exporters Hub is set to welcome speakers from the Department for Business & Trade, the Food & Drink Exporters Association, the British Business Council, the Food & Drink Export Council, Scotland Food & Drink and more to dive deep into a wide range of talking points and trends in the world of food & drink export. The session ‘The Government’s Export Strategy Explained’ will see Food, Drink & Council Co-Chair Ian Wright, Iain Baxter, CEO of Scotland Food & Drink and Karen Morgan, Deputy Director, Agriculture, Food and Drink at the UK Department for Business and Trade, discussing how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of government and provide an insight into export strategies. Other topics up for discussion in the Exporters Hub include the art of sustainable exporting, opening up export opportunities through certification, and successful overseas marketing strategies. Rowena Tolley, Trademark & Branding Partner at Kilburn & Strode LLP and panellist for the session ‘Export can be a risky business’, says: “I’m looking forward to joining the Exporters Hub at IFE this year and discussing how to protect your brand, navigate distributor agreements and avoid common pitfalls and risks in export.” Visitors to the Exporters Hub will also have the opportunity to learn how to meet the expectations of distributors in a panel featuring Sandra Sullivan MBE, Director of the Food, Drink & Exporters Association, Mark Field, CEO of Prof Consulting, Antoaneta Becker, Director Consumer Economy – China at Britain Business Council, and Katie Birrell, Head of International Sales at Nairn’s Oatcakes Ltd. Sullivan comments: “As a vibrant community of exporters and dedicated expert service providers, FDEA are thrilled to partner with the IFE team again for 2024. We’ll be curating insightful drop-in sessions on all things export in the Exporters Hub during the show. “IFE is a key trade show for UK food and drink companies, and we look forward to sharing our knowledge and making valuable new connections at the event.” IFE takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, The Pub Show, HRC and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week. Find out more about everything happening at IFE 2024, and register for your complimentary trade ticket, at ife.co.uk