AGENDA FOR
FESTIVAL OF FRESH
2024

 

INSPIRATION STAGE  

With an eye on current trends and future developments, our Inspiration Stage speakers assess the state of play in the UK fresh produce industry and discuss what it takes to thrive at a difficult time for the sector.

Through a combination of panels, interviews and talks, we get to grips with today’s challenges, and explore opportunities to succeed with agile production, innovative marketing, and sustainable processes.

8.30-9.20: Registration opens and welcome coffee

9.20-9.30: Welcome address

9.30-11.00: Production and trade  
With a general election approaching, industry leaders, trade bodies, top CEOs, and logistics experts discuss the hot topics in production and trade – from inflation to border checks, labour, government support, and R&D. Expect lively debate and frank discussions.

• Martin Emmett, NFU

• Jack Ward, British Growers Association

• Nick Marston, British Berry Growers

• Nigel Jenney, FPC

• Tim O’Malley, Nationwide Produce

• John Gray, Angus Soft Fruits

• Andrew Eastwood, Vitacress

• Dirk Hoffmann, DP World

11.00-11.30: Coffee break  

11.30-12.45: Retail, foodservice and marketing  
Leading voices in retail supply, foodservice, marketing, and branding come together for a fascinating session on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in fresh produce. Expect insights, innovation, and inspiration.

• Ali Capper, British Apples & Pears

• Richard Walker, Sysco Fresh Direct

• Laura Fry, Kantar

• Lorraine Fountain, Coregeo

• Kyla Flynn, Coregeo

• John Heginbottom, Albert Bartlett

• Naomi Farmer, Brandbloom

12.45-13.15: Festival of Fresh Awards  
We announce the winners of the Festival of Fresh Awards, now in their second year, as selected by Fresh Produce Journal’s editorial team for outstanding achievement in the UK fruit and vegetable industry.  

Awards will be presented in the following six categories: 

★ Retail Supplier of the Year ★
★ Non-Retail Supplier of the Year ★
★ Marketing Magic Award ★
★ Sustainable Champion Award ★
★ Editor’s Award ★
New category for 2024: ★ Innovation Award ★ 

13.15-14.15: Lunch  

13.45-14.15: Penalty shootout in aid of FareShare

14.15-15.30: Sustainability  
Key players in environmental agriculture, precision farming, organic retail, and compliance discuss new ways to ensure the sustainability and future success of the UK fresh produce sector. Expect innovation, progressive thinking, and big questions.

• Jim Windle, Branston

• Kate Bannister, NFU

• Richard Bonn, Aethr Associates

• David Sanclement, The Summer Berry Company

• Romy Wilkin, Jones Food Company

• Ed Ayton, Abel & Cole

Plus there will be a handful of separate talks and showcases on exhibitors’ stands throughout the day. 

Free shuttle bus service from Evesham station will be provided to Festival of Fresh attendees.