Judged and trusted: How recognition accelerates growth in the UK

01 Apr 2026
IFE Manufacturing - Business Growth Stage
Marketing and branding , Panel Session

Entering the UK food and drink market comes with its own challenges, from meeting buyer expectations to balancing innovation, quality, and commercial appeal. In this session, the UK Quality Food & Drink Awards panel will explore how winning awards can accelerate market entry, build trust, and elevate brand presence. Drawing on real-world examples and insights from judges and industry experts, the discussion will cover what UK buyers really look for, how packaging, taste, storytelling, and positioning influence success, and why an award like The Q can act as a seal of quality for grocery and foodservice buyers.

Moderator
Simon Wright
Simon Wright, Chair of Judges - UK Quality Food & Drink Awards
Speakers
Andrew Bird
Andrew Bird, Consultant Buying Director
Michelle Charrington
Michelle Charrington, Business Development Director - Invest Northern Ireland