The Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) has announced its inaugural flagship event, the Future of the UK Food System, a one-day conference offering insights into the UK food system.
IGD stated that as we “confront the growing impacts of climate change and geopolitical uncertainty”, the food system faces “significant risks” that will aim to challenge “even the most resilient” industry players.
Evolving shopper behaviour, driven by changing consumer preferences, increased demand for sustainability and a shift towards healthier eating habits, is set to reshape the food system, said IGD, “separating winners from losers in an increasingly competitive landscape”.
The event will combine IGD’s commercial and shopper insights with its ability to “unite the industry” around the shifts shaping the sector’s future. It will focus on boosting food security, driving climate action, making healthier diets more accessible and exploring how retailers can achieve growth.
Key speakers include:
- Simon Roberts, CEO, Sainsbury’s
- Alex Freudmann, managing director, M&S Food
- Thomas Lye, category director Health, Beauty and Wellness, Tesco
- Baroness Minette Batters, Farming Profitability Review lead, Defra
- Richard Watson, CEO, Nestlé UK and Ireland
- Dalton Philips, CEO, Greencore
- Ranjit Singh, president of Boparan Holdings Limited & owner of 2 Sisters Food Group
- Anna Taylor, executive director, The Food Foundation
- Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of Bramble Partners, Leon Restaurants, and the Sustainable Restaurant Association
- Andrew Selley, CEO, Bidcorp UK
- Kari Daniels, CEO, SSP UK and Ireland
Sarah Bradbury, CEO of IGD, said: “The Future of the UK Food System event is a milestone in our calendar, bringing together industry leaders to address the critical issues facing our food system. This conference is a must-attend for anyone committed to driving sustainable growth and resilience in the food industry.
“The importance of the food system to the UK economy cannot be overstated, and supporting economic growth and resilience is essential for the future success of our society and environment.”
