More people are opting for better quality, carefully sourced and speciality food, according to the organisers of The Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2006.
The event attracted more than 6,000 visitors, up 12 per cent on last year.
Speciality food and drink products from the UK and around the world were exhibited by more than 500 producers at the 2006 event, with more than 135 companies holding a stand for the first time.
The catering and retail sector, as well as wholesale and distribution, were represented at the event.
The fair was supported by a number of top chefs, restauranteurs and food journalists including star of BBC 2’s Return to Tuscany Giancarlo Caldesi, Duncan Ackery from Tate Catering and author of Real Flavours Glynn Christian.
Exhibition director Paul MacDonald said: “Consumer interest in the quality of food and drink, and awareness of issues such as traceability and regionality is at an all time high. As a result, the Speciality & Fine Food fair has gone from strength to strength. The 2006 fair featured our largest number of exhibitors ever.
“More than 500 producers took up two floors at London’s Olympia, offering regional delicacies and local specialities, products made from traditional family recipes, and a range of food and drink.
“Live demonstrations took place in the Fine Food Forum and practical business advice was offered in the new Small Business Forum, which combined to provide the perfect event for the speciality and fine food sector.”
