IGD has announced its inaugural flagship event, the Future of the UK Food System – a one-day conference offering insights into the actions required to accelerate progress toward a more sustainable, resilient, and thriving food system.
The UK food system has evolved greatly over the years, but it now stands at a critical juncture, entering a period of transformation crucial to the future success of our economy, society, and environment. As we confront the growing impacts of climate change and geopolitical uncertainty, IGD notes that the food system faces significant risks that will continue 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, separating winners from losers in an increasingly competitive landscape.
From fostering collaboration to boost food security, drive climate action, and make healthier, more sustainable diets accessible to all, to exploring how retailers and suppliers can achieve growth in an increasingly challenging trading environment, the event on 1 October 2025 will combine IGD’s renowned commercial and shopper insights with its unique ability to unite the industry around the major shifts shaping the sector’s future.
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, commented: “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.”
