Every year the UK food and hospitality industries gather for one of their biggest trade events, and in 2026 the Food & Drink Expo returns to the NEC Birmingham from 13 to 15 April. For anyone involved in food retail, hospitality, catering, or manufacturing, this three-day event has become a key date in the industry calendar.
Held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), the show runs from 10am–5pm on Monday and Tuesday and 10am–4pm on Wednesday, bringing together thousands of industry professionals to discover new products, meet suppliers and discuss the future of the sector.
A Major Gathering for the Food Industry
Food & Drink Expo forms part of the wider UK Food & Drink Shows, a collection of industry exhibitions that also include the Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show and Forecourt Show. Together, they create one huge marketplace for ideas, innovation and networking across the food supply chain.
The event attracts around 25,000 visitors and more than 1,200 exhibitors, representing businesses from grocery retail, hospitality, manufacturing, wholesale and specialist food sectors.
For buyers, chefs, retailers and producers alike, it offers a rare chance to explore the latest products and services all under one roof.
What Visitors Can Expect
The expo floor is typically packed with producers showcasing everything from artisan foods and innovative drinks to large-scale supply solutions for restaurants and retailers. Well-known brands such as Belvoir Fruit Farms, Jersey Dairy, Mizkan, Meadow Vale Foods and Grumpy Mule Coffee are among the companies appearing at the show.
Visitors can expect:
New product launches and tastings
Networking with buyers and decision-makers
Industry talks and trend discussions
Opportunities to discover emerging brands
One focus for 2026 is a “Future Foods” spotlight, highlighting companies that are redefining what modern food innovation looks like.
Why Events Like This Matter
Trade events like Food & Drink Expo play an important role in keeping the industry connected. They provide a platform where independent producers can meet large retailers, hospitality businesses can discover new suppliers, and manufacturers can showcase technological advances.
For small producers or speciality brands, the expo can be a gateway to major distribution deals. For buyers, it’s an efficient way to scan the market for the next big trend.
Planning a Visit
Food & Drink Expo is a trade-only event, meaning it is aimed at professionals working in the food and drink sector. Entry is typically free for verified industry visitors who register in advance.
Taking place in Hall 3 of the NEC Birmingham, the event is easily accessible by road, rail and air, with Birmingham International station and airport located nearby.
For anyone working in hospitality, retail, catering or food production, Food & Drink Expo offers three days packed with ideas, connections and inspiration. Whether you are sourcing new ingredients, scouting emerging trends or simply looking to understand where the industry is heading, Birmingham will once again become the meeting place for the UK food and drink world this April.