Trends Podcast Episodes

Charles Banks, co-founder of thefoodpeople, explored the key food and beverage trends shaping 2025 and 2026, highlighting how these trends are already influencing products at IFE and IFE Manufacturing. From shifts in consumer behaviour to the rise of plant-based innovations, functional foods, and sustainability-driven product development, Charles provided a comprehensive overview of the forces driving change in the food and drink industry.

Attendees gained valuable insights into the growing demand for ethical sourcing, tech-driven innovations, and the cultural influences shaping flavour and ingredient trends. It was a must-attend session for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve and future-proof their food and drink offerings.

Keynote Speaker:

• Charles Banks, Director & Co-Founder - thefoodpeople

Curious why an increasing number of F&B brands are targeting the airline sector? This Buyer’s Panel hosted by TickEat revealed the secrets to their success. The event brought attendees face-to-face with key buyers actively seeking innovative products tailored to the dynamic needs of travellers. Participants learned how to break into this lucrative market, adapt their offerings to fit traveller preferences, and navigate common industry challenges. The session concluded with a Q&A, where attendees had the opportunity to ask specific questions and gain tailored advice from buyers including Delta, Virgin Atlantic Airways, and more. It offered valuable insights into how to succeed in these ever-expanding sectors.

Moderator:

• Heerum Fleary, Founder & Director - Tickeat Ltd

Panelists:

• Hari Ghotra, Inflight Food & Beverage Development Manager - Virgin Atlantic
• Robert Lofts, Regional Manager Onboard Service EMEIA - Delta Air Lines
• Yvonne Airey, Inflight Retail Trading Manager - Customer, Cabin & Inflight Services - TUI Airlines

The drinks industry is evolving at breakneck speed as sustainability, health consciousness, and innovation become non-negotiable for consumers. This session delved into the future of beverages, exploring how leading brands are tackling challenges and opportunities through cutting-edge supply chain strategies and commercially savvy solutions. From eco-friendly packaging innovations to functional drinks and the no-and-low alcohol revolution, the session uncovered the trends set to define 2025 and equipped attendees with actionable insights to stay ahead in this fast-moving market.

Keynote Speakers:

• Phil Peters, Director of Supply Chain Services - YF
• Rob Dixon, Director of Commercial Services - YF

Co-founder of Sorted Food, an online food community and popular YouTube channel, Ben explored how to captivate modern, digital audiences and inspire trust in today’s fast-evolving food and drink industry. He showcased how the unique values of friendship and community help create authentic connections. Ben also addressed the challenges facing the industry, highlighting why traditional advertising often struggles to resonate. Attendees discovered how entertainment and inspiration can be powerful tools to change behaviours—served up with a healthy dose of stealth education.

The talk also unpacked the seismic shift in entertainment consumption. Through compelling case studies, including a Sake wine campaign that educated a market and elevated an entire product category, Ben demonstrated how innovative storytelling can create lasting impact. The session concluded with a proven model for behaviour change, offering attendees actionable insights to turn audience curiosity into demand.

Keynote Speaker:

• Ben Ebbrell, Co-Founder & Director - Sorted Food

In the presentation, Kate delved into the shifts in consumer behaviour that are shaping the market landscape. She began by examining the key priorities of consumers in 2025, highlighting how their evolving values are influencing purchasing decisions. A significant focus was placed on day-to-day health, particularly the growing emphasis on emotional wellness and the need to incorporate basic health elements into daily routines. Kate also explored the effects of time scarcity and busy lifestyles on dietary habits, noting how consumers are increasingly seeking convenient solutions that fit their fast-paced lives. Finally, she discussed the rising demand for traditional flavours and exclusive offerings, which not only resonate with consumers’ desires for authenticity but also serve as avenues for self-expression.

Keynote Speaker:

• Kate Kehoe, Marketing Manager - FMCG Gurus

In this panel, experts from the food and drink sector explored how online shopping behaviours are increasingly shaping product trends and consumer preferences. With e-commerce platforms providing real-time insights into consumer choices, the digital marketplace was shown to be a vital tool for predicting what’s next in food and beverage innovation. The panel delved into how data analytics, online shopping trends, and social media influence product development and market forecasting. The discussion highlighted how businesses can harness these insights to anticipate trends, meet evolving consumer demands, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

Moderator:

• Debbie Davies, Founder & Director - Contigo Management Limited

Panelists:

• Bhasker Dhir, Managing Director - Bubcommercial
• Louise Armour, Head of Sales - Rosetta Brands
• Rebecca Holmes, Creative Strategy Director - Cirkle
• Stephen Minall, Founder - FDReviews

This compelling panel discussion explored how veganism and plant-based products are shaping the future of food and drink. With insights into retail strategies, consumer behaviours, and the evolution of sustainable and ethical food trends, the session examined both the opportunities and challenges within the growing plant-based market. From the impact of vegan labelling and certification to innovative approaches in product development and distribution, the conversation provided valuable perspectives for businesses navigating this dynamic and rapidly expanding space. Whether attendees were looking to align with shifting consumer demands or gain a deeper understanding of the rise in an omnivore diet, the discussion offered a forward-thinking look at the state of vegan retail—both present and future.

Moderator:

• Freya O'Mara, Trading Manager for Pantry & Speciality Foods - Ocado Retail Ltd

Panelists:

• Indy Kaur, Founder - Plant Futures Collective
• Jane Land, Chair & Co-Founder - Veganuary
• Karen Spinner, Sales & Marketing Manager - Vegan Society