Speciality & Fine Food Fair, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, has opened entries for its annual awards recognising excellence across artisanal food & drink and speciality retail.
Nicola Woods, Event Manager for Speciality & Fine Food Fair, says: “The Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards celebrate the creativity, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit that make speciality food & drink such an exciting industry.
“With new categories for 2027, we look forward to discovering emerging products and recognising the retailers, producers and community champions helping the sector thrive. Both businesses and individuals to put themselves forward or nominate someone whose work deserves recognition.”
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of BIRA, adds: “Independent food retailers and farm shops give emerging producers an invaluable route to market and customers a reason to explore something different. Their success depends on carefully chosen ranges, knowledgeable teams and a real understanding of the communities they serve.
“We’re delighted to support the Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards again for 2027, recognising the hard work and imagination behind these businesses. We encourage retailers to enter and share what makes their shop special.”
The categories are:
One to Watch – UK
Recognising innovative food & drink products launched by UK-based businesses within the past 12 months, with originality and potential for growth in the speciality market.
One to Watch – International
Celebrating innovative food & drink products launched by internationally based businesses within the past 12 months, with potential to stand out in the UK speciality market.
Not Yet on the Shelf
Recognising innovative food & drink products in development or fully developed but not yet listed with retailers, addressing a gap in the market or an unmet consumer need.
Christmas Cracker
Celebrating food & drink products with exceptional festive appeal, from seasonal treats to gifting ranges, available for the Christmas 2027 trading season.
Speciality Retailer of the Year, supported by BIRA
Recognising UK independent food & drink retailers that combine distinctive product ranges, outstanding customer service and support for independent producers.
Farm Shop of the Year, supported by BIRA
Celebrating UK farm shops that champion quality produce, local or British sourcing, excellent customer experiences and community engagement.
Community Champion
Recognising individuals, businesses and organisations making a positive difference to the UK speciality food & drink industry or their local communities through initiatives such as charitable work, mentoring, sustainability and inclusion.
The deadline for entries is 21 January 2027.
To find out more about the Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards, including more information on how to enter, visit specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk/speciality-fine-food-fair-awards. Speciality & Fine Food Fair takes place on 5-7 April 2027 at Excel London as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week.
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