Food and Drink Matters Issue 193

Boxcold

Company of the Month

Page 5

Meze Foods

Company of the Month

Page 8

March 2026 – issue 193

Currently the leading chocolatier in the UK, we have recently been recognised as one of the

best in the world by The Global Recognition Awards. Our mouthwatering delicious chocolates

are transforming consumer health & wellness worldwide with their innovative freefrom

nature & highly nutritious ingredients. Ben Ellis has formulated a recipe without gluten, egg,

butter, cream, oil, added sugar, artificial & ultra processed ingredients. He instead uses fresh

raw herbs & fruits in a water ganache, creating a refreshing melt in the mouth experience

& a genuinely healthy chocolate with an unmatched purity of flavour. We pride ourselves

on integrity, excellence in business, & creating beautiful handcrafted chocolates that are a

specialty fine food without a premium price tag.

07904 323009 info@benellischocolatier.co.uk https://benellischocolatier.co.uk

We supply our

exceptionally

high quality spelt

products for retail

sale, wholesale

and direct to

the bakery and

restaurant trade

| White &

Wholegrain

Spelt Flour |

| Pearled Spelt |

| Flaked Spelt |

| Kibbled Spelt |

01740 629529 | info@craggsandco.co.uk | www.craggsandco.co.uk

CONTENTS

March 2026 – issue 193

19

Inside this issue

5 Boxcold Ireland Ltd

Catering Equipment Company of the Month

Smits: We cry for you

In professional kitchens, onions are everywhere, yet the work behind

them often remains invisible. Peeling, trimming and cutting consume

valuable time before service even begins.

11 Halal Certification Organisation

IFE Preview

6 Pont Packaging Group

Packaging Innovations Review

17 Giraf Macadamia

Farm Shop & Deli Show Preview

8 Meze Foods

Chilled Food & Dairy Company of the Month

25 Crown

LogiMAT Preview

11 13 15

Follow us on X or follow us on Linked In o

Download our iOS app and Android app

NFU Energy

NFU Energy, one of the UK’s leading independent energy

consultancies, is urging food and drink manufacturers to take greater

control of their energy strategy ahead of IFE 2026.

www.foodanddrinkmatters.co.uk

The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 01562 756960.

EDITOR RECOMMENDS

Hygienic design in the food industry: How we

combine safety and efficiency through smart

system engineering

Safe’ system, featuring a dual ultrasonic

seal, ensures packaging integrity even under

demanding conditions – tested and confirmed

by the Technical University of Lübeck. In

combination with our ValvoDetect sensor

monitoring system, faulty seals are reliably

detected and eliminated – ensuring the highest

level of product safety and quality.

In food production, hygienic conditions

are non-negotiable – they are essential

for ensuring safety, quality, and economic

efficiency. At GREIF-VELOX, we go beyond

viewing hygienic design as a requirement – we

see it as a true value driver for our customers.

Our new whitepaper on ‘Hygienic Design’

reveals how thoughtfully engineered systems

can elevate production to a new level – with

clearly measurable benefits for operators.

Less downtime, more food safety: Hygienic

design as a success factor

Through design features such as radial

transitions, smooth surfaces without dead

spaces, and fully drainable components – as

Bristol Fungarium

implemented in our BVP gross pneumatic

packer – we prevent microbial contamination

right at the core of the process. The result?

Significantly reduced cleaning times, lower

product losses, and a sustainable reduction in

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

With optional integrated wet-cleaning systems,

we also offer solutions for automated, fully

documented cleaning processes – a key

advantage for frequent product changeovers

or allergen-sensitive recipes.

Clean filling processes: Powered by smart

technology

Clean processes at GREIF-VELOX don’t stop

at the filling spout. Our patented ‘ValvoSeal

Since then, they’ve

built an in-house

lab and have begun

working with third

party labs, Analytical

Chemists and

Neuroscientists to

test their extracts for

composition, quality

and efficacy.

Tailored to your food segment

Whether you’re filling milk powder, cocoa,

or protein-based additives – our modular

filling systems can be flexibly adapted to a

wide range of product requirements. At the

same time, they meet the highest standards

for auditability and regulatory compliance –

from EHEDG and GMP all the way to FDA

conformity for export markets.

Curious to learn more?

Discover how our hygienic design solutions

can make your production more efficient,

safer, and future-proof in our latest

whitepaper.

To the whitepaper: www.greif-velox.com/us/

hygienic-design-in-the-food-industry

Bristol Fungarium is the first

UK-native and organic certified

mushroom farm. As an organic

farmer and former forest school

leader, founder Tom Baxter turned

his penchant for fungi into a

venture of medicinal mushroom

tinctures that are locally foraged,

organically farmed and lovingly

formulated as well as being

recommended by healthcare

practitioners across the nation.

In 2020, Bristol Fungarium began

cloning UK-native strains and

pouring hours into clinical trials

to establish the optimal way to

extract and make bioavailable the

myriad compounds of interest.

Bristol Fungarium

have appeared at

festivals nationwide

and pop up at

well-known South

West markets. Along the way,

they’ve teamed up with brands like

Radek’s Chocolate; blending their

UK-native Lion’s Mane with vegan

and organic chocolate to create

an award winning functional

treat. Today they crop over a ton

of fungi each month including

UK-native Lions Mane, Reishi,

Turkey Tail, Oysters, Maitake,

Cordyceps & Shiitake. Looking to

the future, the team are committed

to deepening their research,

expanding their pioneering UKnative

mushroom offering, and

continuing to grow a community

of fantastic fungi-loving folk.

www.bristolfungarium.com

4

FDM is sponsored by Graphic Kitchen – see them on pages 18 & 20

CATERING EQUIPMENT COMPANY OF THE MONTH

Boxcold leads the way in

premium catering solutions

In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are

pleased to feature Boxcold Ireland Ltd as our

Catering Equipment Company of the Month

Founded in 2020

by James and

William Quail,

Boxcold Ireland

Limited was established

with a clear ambition:

to supply high-end

catering equipment and

premium cold room

solutions to customers

across Ireland and

the UK. Based in Co.

Meath, and Boxcold UK in Hampshire. The

company has quickly earned a reputation

for quality, reliability and customer-focused

service within the food and hospitality sectors.

From cafés and pubs to large-scale catering

operations, Boxcold has become synonymous

with trusted solutions, expert advice and

dependable aftercare.

As sole Irish distributors of Boxcold’s modular

cold and freezer rooms – manufactured in Italy

to the highest standards – the company provides

a flexible, scalable

solution for businesses

requiring efficient

refrigeration. These

modular systems

can be tailored

from design stage to

installation, offering

clients a bespoke cold

storage solution that

fits seamlessly with

their operations. From

small commercial

kitchens to large food production facilities and

medical environments, Boxcold ensures every

project is delivered with precision and technical

expertise.

Alongside its specialist Boxcold, cold

rooms, its sister company, Kings Catering

and Refrigeration,

supplies an extensive

range of European

catering equipment

brands, including

Aritarco, Freezerline,

Bartscher, Smeg and

Sharp, Mercatus and

Tonon racking, as

well as monoblocks

and remote units held

in stock for fast lead

times. By combining

high-quality equipment

with attentive

service, the company

supports businesses in

meeting operational

demands efficiently

while maintaining

the highest standards

of performance and

reliability.

A key differentiator

for Boxcold is its focus on sourcing

predominantly European products, ensuring

durability, precision and compliance with

industry standards. Its modular cold rooms are

particularly valued for their flexibility, allowing

operators to expand, reconfigure or adapt

their storage as their business grows. With

in-house expertise from initial consultation to

project completion, Boxcold provides end-toend

solutions that give clients peace of mind,

whether they are undertaking

a single equipment purchase

or a full turnkey cold room

installation.

Earlier this year, following

the expansion of its newly

built warehouse – which

enables the company to

hold a broader range of

stock – Boxcold Ireland

exhibited at IFEX 2026

(24-26 February) at the

Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn. The team

showcased a wide selection of high-end catering

equipment from European manufacturers,

ranging from ice machines and refrigeration

units to large-scale cold rooms. The exhibition

provided an opportunity to demonstrate the

company’s commitment to service, innovation

and supporting the evolving needs of Ireland’s

hospitality sector, while engaging directly with

customers and industry

professionals.

Looking ahead, Boxcold

Ireland is focused on

continued growth and

stronger engagement

with the catering

community across

Ireland and the UK. The

company’s goal is to

consolidate its position

as a go-to supplier

of high-quality refrigeration and catering

equipment while maintaining the personal

service and technical expertise that have defined

the business since its founding. By expanding

its product range, increasing stock availability,

and continuing to offer bespoke design and

installation services, Boxcold aims to respond

quickly and effectively to the changing needs of

hospitality operators in a fast-paced market.

Plans are also underway to open a new

showroom at its Co. Meath

premises. This dedicated

space will allow customers

to experience selected

equipment first-hand,

explore tailored solutions

in a practical setting, and

consult directly with the

team. For Boxcold, the future

is about more than growth

– it is about building lasting

partnerships, providing

exceptional support, and

ensuring that every customer in the food and

drink sector has access to reliable, top-quality

equipment that helps their business thrive.

With a focus on innovation, quality and

service, Boxcold Ireland is set to remain a

trusted partner for cafés, pubs, restaurants and

catering businesses across Ireland and the UK.

By combining European engineering excellence

with local expertise and dedicated aftercare,

the company continues to help its customers

operate efficiently, scale successfully, and

maintain the highest standards in refrigeration

and catering solutions.

T +353 (0)87 0362168

info@kingscatering.ie

www.kingscatering.ie

T +353 (0)87 0362168

info@boxcold.ie

https://boxcold.ie

FDM is sponsored by Graphic Kitchen – see them on pages 18 & 20 5

PACKAGING INNOVATIONS REVIEW

The future of food & drink packaging

his year, Packaging Innovations & Empack,

Twhich took place at Birmingham’s NEC from

11-12 February 2026, established itself as the UK’s

premier packaging and processing event for food

and beverage professionals. Brands, manufacturers,

and innovators had the opportunity to explore the

latest packaging trends, sustainable solutions, and

cutting-edge technologies that will transform how

products are designed, packaged, and delivered to

consumers.

The show brought together more than 450

exhibitors spanning the full packaging lifecycle,

from design and primary packaging to machinery,

automation, and materials innovation. Food and

drink visitors explored solutions tailored to their

specific needs, gaining inspiration and practical ideas

to implement in their businesses.

Sustainable packaging options featured prominently,

including biodegradable, recyclable, and

compostable materials that meet both regulatory

requirements and growing consumer expectations.

Attendees also encountered innovative labelling and

branding concepts, from smart labels to premium

designs, all aimed at enhancing shelf appeal and

elevating products in a competitive marketplace.

Automation and technology played a central role,

with live demonstrations of robotics, filling, sealing,

and labelling machines showing how efficiency can

be increased without compromising product quality.

The exhibition floor was organised into themed

zones, allowing visitors to navigate easily to the

areas most relevant to their interests, whether that

is materials innovation, automation, or contract

packing services.

Sustainability also took centre stage, with the

Material ConneXion and Innovation Galleries

showcasing novel substrates, from plant-based

polymers to compostable films, providing inspiration

for next-generation packaging. Circular Economy

workshops guided attendees on implementing

closed-loop strategies, reducing food waste, and

improving supply chain sustainability. Expert-led

seminars covered compliance with UK and EU

packaging regulations, eco-design principles, and

ways that sustainable packaging can strengthen

brand loyalty and resonate with environmentally

conscious consumers.

Automation and technology continued to shape the

visitor experience, illustrating how robotics, filling,

sealing, and labelling systems will help production

lines achieve greater efficiency, consistency, and

safety. Many of the solutions will integrate datadriven

tracking and traceability, enabling food and

beverage brands to meet evolving regulatory and

consumer expectations. Attendees were able to see

these innovations firsthand, helping them futureproof

operations, streamline production, and reduce

labour dependency.

The seminar programme provided insights across

multiple key areas, covering sustainable packaging

in practice, packaging design strategies, and supply

chain efficiency. Sessions explored smart labelling,

traceability solutions, and case studies from leading

food and drink brands.

Packaging Innovations & Empack return next year

to Birmingham’s NEC from 24-25 February 2027.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this

year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Pont

Packaging. Further details can be found on this page.

www.packagingbirmingham.com

Pont Packaging Group at Packaging Innovations

Birmingham

ont Packaging Group exhibited at Packaging

PInnovations & Empack, where the business

also marked an important milestone. This year

celebrates 120 years since Pont Packaging was

originally incorporated in Amsterdam, reflecting

the group’s long-standing role as a trusted

European packaging partner and its continued

focus on sustainable, compliant packaging

solutions.

New Cylpacker Jars

Pont showcased the Cylpacker Jar, which was

the hero product on display. Designed to meet

the needs of fast-growing consumer categories,

the Cylpacker is a versatile PET container

that combines strong shelf presentation with

efficient handling and filling performance. It is

especially well suited to the vitamins, minerals

and supplements market, as well as confectionery,

functional foods and nutraceutical products.

The Cylpacker’s clean, cylindrical shape delivers

a modern, professional on-shelf appearance,

while its high clarity ensures excellent product

visibility. This is a key advantage for categories

where consumers expect to see the product before

purchase, such as capsules, gummies, powders

and functional confectionery. The lightweight yet

durable PET construction also supports efficient

logistics and handling, helping brands manage

transport and storage more effectively.

Available in multiple sizes and compatible with

a wide range of closures, the Cylpacker allows

brands to build consistent product families across

different formats and SKUs. This flexibility

makes it suitable for both new product launches

and established ranges looking to standardise

packaging or improve visual consistency. Pont

Packaging can also support customers with closure

pairing, sampling and technical guidance to ensure

compatibility with existing filling lines.

New Ruby DTO Jars

Pont also presented a broader selection of jars,

bottles and closures, including the new Ruby

DTO Jar for food applications. This deep twistoff

container has been developed to offer robust

performance on filling lines alongside strong

shelf presentation. The wide opening supports

efficient filling and ease of use for consumers,

while the twist-off closure delivers secure sealing

and consistent performance. The Ruby DTO is

suitable for a range of applications including

spreads, sauces and other viscous products, making

it a practical option for both growing brands and

established producers.

T +44 (0)161 874 1930

sales@pontuk.com

www.ponteurope.com

6


PACKAGING INNOVATIONS REVIEW

Reflex showcases innovation

& sustainability at Packaging

Innovations 2026

Awarded ‘Most Sustainable Stand’ at NEC

Birmingham

Birmingham, UK – 12 February 2026

Reflex Group exhibited at Packaging

Innovations at the NEC Birmingham

on 11-12 February, welcoming a wide

range of existing and prospective customers

from across multiple sectors. The two day

event provided an opportunity for Reflex

to demonstrate the breadth of its integrated

labelling and packaging capabilities, alongside

its ongoing commitment to sustainability and

innovation.

The Reflex stand brought together solutions

from across the entire Group, including

self-adhesive labels, linerless labels, flexible

packaging and cartonboard packaging. Visitors

were able to explore how Reflex delivers a

complete end-to-end solution, from design and

prototyping through to finished packaging,

tailored to the needs of brands operating in

highly competitive markets.

A key highlight on the stand was Reflex’s

patented Stereo Labels technology – labels

printed on both sides of the liner which

can reduce liner waste by up to 50%. The

technology attracted significant interest from

Reflex Group Stand at Packaging

Innovations

companies seeking practical

ways to reduce material usage

and improve environmental

performance without

compromising functionality.

The exhibition also marked

the official launch of Reflex-

Ultrarap , an innovative pallet

wrap system from Reflex’s

packaging solutions division.

Featuring a handheld dispenser

loaded with 100% recyclable

stretch film, Reflex-Ultrarap

is designed to help businesses

reduce the amount of plastic and

cardboard entering the supply

chain, increase operational

efficiency and protect the health

and safety of their employees in

pallet dispatch operations.

“Packaging Innovations is

always an important date in

the calendar for us,” said Claire

Stringer-Phillips, Head of

Marketing, Reflex Group. “It

provides the perfect platform

to demonstrate not only the

breadth of our capabilities, but

how we are actively rethinking

packaging to make it more

efficient and more sustainable.

The response to Stereo Labels

and the launch of Reflex-

Ultrarap shows that businesses

are looking for solutions that

deliver both performance and

measurable environmental

benefits.”

After two busy and successful

days, the event concluded on a

high note for the Reflex team,

who were awarded ‘Most

Sustainable Stand’ from over 500

exhibitors. The award recognises

Reflex’s ongoing commitment to

driving sustainability across the

packaging industry.

The recognition reinforces Reflex

Group’s long-term ambition

to become the world’s most

sustainable packaging company,

underpinned by continued

investment, innovation and

collaboration with customers

across global markets.

T 01623 675000

www.reflexlabels.co.uk

Reflex Group Team at Packaging Innovations

Reflex Marketing Team receiving ‘Most

Sustainable Stand’ Award


CHILLED FOOD & DAIRY COMPANY OF THE MONTH

Elevating Mediterranean

Cuisine in the UK

In this issue of Food & Drink Monthly we

have featured Meze Foods as our Chilled

Food & Dairy Company of the Month

E

stablished in 1997, Meze

Foods & Dairy Products

Ltd was founded with

a singular ambition – to bring

refined, authentic Mediterranean

flavour to the UK market

at a standard that never

compromises. Rooted in family

culinary heritage and inspired

by the richness of Aegean and

Eastern Mediterranean cuisine,

the company was built on

craftsmanship, integrity and

a deep respect for traditional

recipes.

Nearly three decades on, that foundation has evolved

into a premium manufacturing operation supplying

some of the UK’s most quality-conscious retailers and

foodservice providers. Operating from a dedicated

production facility in North London, Meze Foods

proudly partners with wholesalers, independent

retailers, supermarkets, restaurants, cafés and catering

businesses throughout

the UK.

Meze Foods specialise

in the production

of premium

Mediterranean meze

and dairy products for

retail and foodservice

markets. Its portfolio

includes luxuriously

smooth hummus in

a range of distinctive

flavours, vibrant

tzatziki, indulgently

creamy taramasalata,

tahini dip, strained yoghurts, halloumi, olives and

complementary Mediterranean specialities.

The company’s key differentiator lies in the balance

between artisan character and manufacturing

precision. Each product is developed to achieve a

refined flavour profile, superior texture and visual

appeal – ensuring strong shelf presence and repeat

purchase performance.

Meze Foods’ authentic, heritageled

recipes are crafted using

carefully selected, high-quality

ingredients The company’s

famous hummus selection

delivers a velvety finish with

depth of flavour; its tzatziki is

clean, fresh and balanced and its

taramasalata rich yet refined. This

quality translates directly into

consumer loyalty, premium price

justification and enhanced margin

opportunity.

All of Meze Foods’ products

are made to consistent batch

production standards, which

offers a reliable supply capability.

For retailers, this means a range

that not only elevates the fixture

visually but drives category

growth through premiumisation.

For foodservice operators, it

ensures flavour consistency and

customer

satisfaction

service after

service.

The

company’s growth has been

underpinned by investment in

production capability, ensuring it

can support increasing demand

while preserving product quality.

Its wide infrastructure allows

Meze Foods to deliver both

consistency and scale, supporting

independent delis, specialist

retailers, wholesalers and national accounts with

dependable supply and responsive service.

The combination of consistent

production and excellent

flavour, underpinned by

authenticity, means Meze

Foods has carved out a position

as a dependable partner in

a category that continues to

outperform standard dips and

spreads. Owner, Ulku Isinel, told

us this success comes from the

company’s deeply entrenched

ethos of providing the best and

sharing Mediterranean culture,

“Our philosophy is centred

on three pillars: authenticity,

quality and sustainable growth. Mediterranean food is

inherently about generosity and shared experience, and

our brand translates that warmth into a contemporary,

premium retail and foodservice proposition.”

This dedication to company

values has seen Meze Food

continue to expand its flavour

portfolio in response to

evolving consumer tastes while

maintaining the integrity of

classic Mediterranean staples.

Strategic range extensions allow

retailers to introduce variety

without diluting brand identity

which in turn encourages tradeup

behaviour and incremental

basket spend from the consumer.

Ulku went on to explain the

importance consumer taste to

both Meze and their clients, “Today’s consumers are

increasingly selective. They are willing to invest in

quality, authenticity and elevated everyday indulgence.

Meze Foods delivers a range that satisfies those

expectations while offering

retailers tangible commercial

return.”

As consumer appetite for premium

global flavours continues to rise,

Meze Foods are strategically

aligned to support retailers seeking

differentiation and category

leadership. Recent developments

at Meze Foods have focused on

expanding flavour variants within

its hummus and meze ranges,

strengthening production capacity

and reinforcing its position within

the chilled Mediterranean category.

Looking forward, the company’s

central ambition is to further

establish Meze Foods as a

leading premium Mediterranean

manufacturer in the UK. It aims

to broaden distribution, develop

carefully curated new product

lines and deepen strategic

partnerships with forwardthinking

retailers and hospitality

groups.

“The Mediterranean category

remains one of the most

dynamic areas within chilled

foods – and we are committed

to helping our partners

capitalise on that growth,” Ulku explained.

As Mediterranean cuisine continues to demonstrate

sustained growth within the UK chilled category,

Meze Foods is well-positioned as a specialist

premium manufacturer. The superior flavour of its

products is matched only by its consistent production

infrastructure and strong visual shelf appeal.

For businesses seeking to enhance their Mediterranean

fixture, strengthen premium positioning and drive

incremental sales within chilled, Meze Foods represents

both a refined product solution and a reliable growth

partner, operating at the intersection of authenticity

and commercial viability, and offering products that

meet modern consumer demand for provenance,

quality ingredients and elevated everyday indulgence.

T 020 8365 9494

info@mezefoods.co.uk

www.mezefoods.co.uk

8


PRINT & PACKAGING MATTERS

Hygienic, leak-proof, efficient:

Innovative bagging of potato starch

In the industrial

processing of

potato starch,

error-free filling and

sealing processes are

crucial for product

safety, hygiene and

efficiency. At Danish

starch manufacturer

AKD Toftlund, part

of the KMC Group,

this is ensured by the

combination of a highperformance

air packer,

precise bag inspection

and patented ultrasonic

sealing.

High demands on

accuracy and hygiene

AKD Toftlund produces

potato starch as well

as numerous modified

starches and exports to more than 80 countries.

Production runs at high throughput with a

BVP air packer system from Greif-Velox, which

bags up to 800 bags of 25 kilograms per hour.

During operation, however, a recurring problem

became apparent in the past: a number of valve

bags were not being opened or positioned

correctly. This led to incorrect filling, product

loss, dust formation and increased cleaning

effort.

Faulty bag valves, for example due to sticking

to the bottom of the bag, were only detected

late in the standard process – often after the

filling process had started. This resulted in

unnecessary interruptions, rejects and quality

defects. The aim was to sort out these bags

at an early stage and increase overall process

reliability.

Early detection and ejection with the

ValvoDetect sensor system

To minimise incorrect filling, the existing

filling system was expanded to include the

ValvoDetect feature from Greif-Velox. Sensors

are used to check whether the bag valve is

properly opened before the filling process.

Faulty bags are thus sorted out in advance.

BVP air packer system from Greif-Velox at AKD Toftlund

Missing bag detection with the ValvoDetect system

This check ensures that only correctly filled and

properly sealed bags end up on the pallet.

Analysis of faulty bags

After commissioning Valvo-Detect, AKD

Toftlund launched a

systematic analysis project

together with Greif-Velox

and other partners in order

to not only identify the

causes of faulty bags, but to

eliminate them permanently.

Over an extended period

of time, all discharged bags

were logged, categorised

and examined in detail.

Three main causes occurred

particularly frequently:

Firstly, it was found that

valves on some bags were

sticking to the bottom and

therefore could not be placed correctly on the

filling spout. Secondly, an unfavourable valve

length meant that the valves buckled or twisted

easily during handling. In

addition, some batches had

faulty bonding or material

tension, which had a negative

impact on the opening

behaviour.

Significant reduction in waste

Based on these findings,

alternative bag designs were

tested in several series of

tests. The combination of a

shortened valve length and

an adhesive dot modification,

which fixed the valve in

a defined position and

thus ensured problem-free

opening, was particularly

successful. This optimisation

reduced the reject rate by up

to 90%; the rate of faulty

bags was reduced from the original 0.4 to 0.8%

to just 0.04 to 0.08%. In combination with

ValvoDetect, faulty welds practically no longer

occurred. “There are no more bags that are not

correctly sealed. ValvoDetect is a real benefit

for the trouble-free operation of the system,”

says project manager John Skriver Kloster,

summarising the results.

Maximum tightness thanks to ValvoSeal

ValvoSeal is also used at the site to ensure that

the final process stage – the sealing of the valve

bags – also meets the highest safety standards.

The patented ultrasonic welding technology

uses structured, waffle-patterned weld seams.

Compared to conventional methods, it offers

up to 60% greater strength (in accordance with

DIN 55571-2) and reliably prevents dust from

escaping.

In the revised and patented ‘ValvoSeal Safe’

version, the system works with a double seam,

ensuring absolute tightness even with critical

products. In addition to protecting the product

and employees, this contributes to consistently

high packaging quality and an improved brand

reputation.

Holistic process reliability from filling to

welding

The combination of ValvoDetect and ValvoSeal

ensures a consistently safe and clean filling

process at AKD Toftlund – from the detection of

faulty bags to the absolutely tight sealing of the

valve. This minimises product loss and cleaning

effort, reduces reject costs and reliably meets the

hygiene and packaging safety requirements of

international customers.

info@greif-velox.com

www.greif-velox.com

Double ultrasonic sealing with ValvoSeal Safe


IFE PREVIEW

Registration is now open with food and drink

innovation at its core

egistration is now open for Food, Drink &

RHospitality Week 2026, returning to ExCeL

London from 30 March to 1 April.

Bringing together five leading trade events alongside

the International Salon Culinaire competition

programme, the three day event offers food and

drink businesses, manufacturers and buyers a

unique opportunity to explore the full supply chain,

from product discovery and ingredient sourcing to

processing, packaging and route to market.

At the heart of the food and drink offer sit IFE

and IFE Manufacturing, which together provide

a comprehensive platform for retail, wholesale,

foodservice and hospitality buyers to connect

with hundreds of brands, producers and suppliers.

Korea’s favourite Kimchi

Established in 1987, Jongga is

the first ever packaged Kimchi

brand in the world and remains

the No.1 Kimchi brand in Korea

to this day.

The Jongga brand belongs to

Korean food manufacturing giant,

Daesang Corporation. Jongga

Kimchi is ‘Korea’s favourite

Kimchi’ and exports to over 60

countries globally, delivering a

traditional and authentic product

experience to all.

Daesang established its UK

branch in 2022 to meet the

growing demand for Korean

food, particularly Kimchi. In

2023, as the European market

expanded, Daesang built a

factory in Poland to produce

fresh, authentic Kimchi within

Europe. This venture, fondly

coined ‘EU Kimchi’, now ensures

Jongga is available in a variety

of food service and retail formats

that ensure fresh, traditionaltasting

Kimchi readily accessible

throughout Europe.

Having exhibited at the IFE

for the past few years, Daesang

UK has witnessed firsthand the

Spanning finished products, ingredients and

manufacturing solutions, the two shows reflect the

increasingly interconnected nature of food and drink

development, production and commercialisation.

IFE is the UK’s largest product sourcing platform

for food and drink, bringing together established

brands and emerging producers from across

global markets. With 13 show sections organised

by product categories including Bakery, Snacks

& Confectionery, Chilled & Frozen, and Health,

Organic & Natural, the event is designed to make

discovery efficient and relevant, enabling buyers

to source new products, identify trends and build

long-term supplier relationships. From ambient

and chilled foods to speciality, health-led and

international products, IFE offers a broad view

of what will shape menus and shelves in the year

ahead.

Plus, the Startup Market and New Products

Discovery Theatre are must-visit features of the

show for buyers looking to explore the very latest

new innovations in food & drink.

Alongside this, IFE Manufacturing focuses on the

product development and production side of the

industry, supporting brands and manufacturers at

every stage of the supply chain. Exhibitors span

ingredients, packaging solutions, processing &

packaging technology, manufacturing services and,

new for 2026, food tech.

The show offers visitors practical insight into how

growing interest and knowledge

of Kimchi and Korean food.

Given the current focus on gut

health and wellness in the food

sector, kimchi, especially Jongga

Kimchi, has never been more

relevant or better positioned in

the UK market. You can find

Jongga Kimchi in Costco, H

Mart, Oseyo, Longdan and Seoul

Plaza.

Come see us on Stand N2770.

dsuk@daesangeurope.com

https://daesangeurope.com

www.instagram.com/daesang_uk

Eurostar Commodities

Founded in 1994, Eurostar

Commodities is a trusted,

family-run importer and supplier

of premium commodities and

ingredients. With a strong

reputation for excellence, the

company serves manufacturers,

wholesalers, foodservice,

retailers, and consumers across

the UK, Ireland, northern

Europe, the Middle East, and

Iceland.

Eurostar Commodities holds

BRCGS AA accreditation,

a testament to its rigorous

commitment to high-quality

standards and food safety.

The company prides itself on

sourcing from reliable, global

suppliers and food producers,

ensuring a consistent supply of

superior products.

Based in Yorkshire, Eurostar

Commodities boasts an on-site

technical development team

that drives product innovation

and development. The team’s

expertise focuses on delivering

outstanding quality and creating

cutting edge solutions to meet

evolving market demands.

to improve existing lines, develop new products and

increase efficiency. For food and drink businesses

navigating rising costs and evolving regulatory and

sustainability expectations, IFE Manufacturing

provides direct access to expertise and solutions.

This year, both events are connected by a theme

of ‘Feeding the Future’, which explores the forces

shaping what consumers will eat and drink in the

years ahead. From changing dietary preferences

and ingredient innovation to new formats, flavours

and sustainability priorities, the theme provides a

unifying lens through which exhibitors and content

examine growth and resilience across the food and

drink sector.

With registration now open, food and drink brands,

manufacturers and buyers are invited to secure their

place at Food, Drink & Hospitality Week 2026 and

take part in three days of product discovery, insight

and collaboration across the supply chain.

www.ife.co.uk

Eurostar Commodities has been

recognised for its excellence,

winning Business of the Year

and SME of the Year at the

Calderdale Business Awards

in October 2024, cementing

its position as a leader in the

food commodity and ingredient

industry.

The company’s extensive

network of trusted suppliers and

food producers around the world

underpins its ability to deliver

a diverse range of high-quality

ingredients tailored to market

needs.

Come see us on Stand N2618.

T 01484 320516

www.eurostarfoods.co.uk

10


Powering smarter manufacturing: Take control of

your energy strategy at IFE 2026

FU Energy, one of the UK’s leading independent

Nenergy consultancies, is urging food and drink

manufacturers to take greater control of their energy

strategy ahead of IFE 2026.

Energy remains one of the largest controllable costs

in food and drink manufacturing, yet for many

businesses, it’s also one of the least strategically

managed.

From refrigeration and

cold storage systems,

ovens and compressed

air, production often

relies heavily on energyintensive

processes.

With margins under

constant pressure and

retailers demanding

greater efficiency

and sustainability

performance, energy

strategy has become

a critical lever

for protecting profitability and maintaining

competitiveness.

Before investing in on-site generation, many

manufacturers can unlock significant savings by

optimising what they already have. Addressing heat

loss, eliminating compressed air leaks, reviewing

process efficiency, and upgrading to new technologies

can deliver immediate and measurable savings. These

improvements not only reduce operational costs but

also help businesses respond to growing expectations

Halal Certification Organisation

Halal Certification Organisation (HCO)

stands as a leading independent

Halal certification body based in the

United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland,

committed to upholding the integrity and

standards of Halal products and services

globally. Accredited by GAC and ENAS, and

recognised by major regulatory authorities

including MOIAT, SFDA, SASO, MOPH-

Qatar, BPJPH, MUIS, CICOT and the

World Halal Council, HCO provides trusted

certification that facilitates international

trade and regulatory compliance across

diverse markets.

HCO comprises a multitude of

industry-experienced professionals and

experts overseeing the vision, progress,

and governance of the organisation.

The independent Halal Certification

Advisory Board brings together Islamic

Theologians, Medical Practitioners, Veterinary

Surgeons, Pharmacists, Food Technologists,

Microbiologists and Social Scientists, ensuring

comprehensive oversight that combines Islamic

theological principles with scientific rigour.

HCO’s mission centres on serving as a quality

mark conforming to Halal requirements.

Halal certified companies and products must

meet the highest standards of product quality,

maintain best manufacturing practices and

uphold high animal welfare standards. HCO

certification accredits organisations satisfying

Halal requirements while ensuring the quality

around carbon and ESG performance from

customers, regulators and supply chain partners.

The regulatory landscape is complex and fast moving.

Schemes such as ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity

Scheme) and SECR (Specific Energy Carbon

Reporting) require careful management to ensure

compliance and avoid unnecessary financial penalties.

With the right specialist support manufacturers can

meet their obligations efficiently while maximising

available exemptions,

discounts and levy

reductions.

With rising electricity

prices and sustainability

targets tightening, many

manufacturers are also

exploring self-generation

options such as solar

PV and battery storage

or Combined Heat and

Power (CHP). A robust

feasibility assessment

ensures decisions are technically sound and financially

justified before investing.

Energy can be a significant cost, but with expert

guidance it can become a strategic advantage.

NFU Energy is one of the UK’s leading, independent

energy consultancies supporting businesses across

food, drink, and agriculture sectors. With over 58

years and more than 20,000 customers nationwide,

NFU Energy combines deep sector knowledge with

of finished products and their constituent

ingredients. The organisation consistently

certifies Halal, healthy and hygienic consumable

and non-consumable products across the meat,

food, beverages, pharmaceutical and cosmetic

industries, operating in full compliance with

national legislations and Islamic dietary laws.

HCO combines the highest standards of Islamic

theology with science-based evidence to achieve

its goals. This consistent delivery of standards

results from regular training and awareness

programmes for industry professionals and

consumers alike. The organisation prides itself

on serving the Muslim community by assuring

practical, commercially focused advice to help

organisations reduce cost, manage compliance and

plan for a lower-carbon future.

At IFE 2026, NFU Energy’s specialists will be

available to discuss energy management, regulatory

compliance and renewable technologies tailored to

your organisation.

Whether you are looking to improve efficiency,

strengthen ESG performance, or assess on-site

generation, visit the team for a free consultation.

During the show, one lucky business will win

a renewable feasibility study worth £1,200, a

valuable opportunity to take the first step towards

understanding your self-generation possibilities. Be

sure to stop by the NFU Energy Stand N240 to enter.

Visit NFU Energy on

Stand N240 (section:

Manufacturing)

T 024 7669 6512

info@nfuenergy.co.uk

www.nfuenergy.co.uk

IFE PREVIEW

Halal products through professional

and trained Muslim inspectors, technical

auditors and highly experienced technical

managers throughout the entire supply

chain – from production to consumption.

Core Values guide everything HCO does:

● Love Integrity – embracing honesty and

striving to use words that inspire others

to embrace truth.

● Agility – embracing adaptability and

evolving with changing circumstances.

● Responsibility – taking full ownership

and holding ourselves accountable.

● Growth Mindset – encouraging education

and training based on Islamic theology

and science; and

● Excellence – through ongoing

professional development, delivering

comprehensive supply chain assurance

offering consumers Halal, Healthy and

Hygienic products.

HCO certifies clients across Food, Beverages,

Meat, Catering Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics,

Health Supplements & Nutraceuticals.

This accreditation status enables businesses

to export to UK, European, GCC and global

markets with confidence, meeting stringent

Halal standards recognised worldwide.

Contact: Dr Amer Rashid, Technical Director

M 07886 010373

amer@hcoltd.co.uk


THE UK FOOD & DRINK SHOWS PREVIEW

Where the industry connects: Inside

the UK Food & Drink Shows 2026

T

he UK Food and Drink Shows are

happening on 13th-15th April 2026 at the

NEC, Birmingham.

When the UK’s food and drink industry converges

at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham

for the upcoming UK

Food & Drink Shows,

it’s much more than a

trade exhibition – it’s

the pulse point of sector

innovation, connection

and commercial

discovery. Over three

packed days, thousands

of visitors from across

retail, foodservice,

wholesale, hospitality

and specialist sectors

will explore the latest products, trends and

business ideas that are shaping the future of food

in the UK and beyond. Attendees who register for

one show receive access to all of the co-located

events, uniting Food and Drink Expo with the

National Convenience Show, the Farm Shop &

Deli Show and the Forecourt Show under one

free pass, creating a comprehensive industry

experience all under one roof.

At the centre of this convergence sits the Food

and Drink Expo, the flagship event designed to

inspire and equip buyers and decision-makers

across grocery, hospitality, foodservice and

wholesale markets. With more than 1,200

exhibitors expected, this is where established

brands and emerging innovators showcase their

newest products and innovations, giving attendees

first sight of what might dominate shelves and

menus in the year ahead. The expo is curated

around key sectors of the market, from health

and wellbeing products and plant-based launches

to artisan foods and drink innovations, making it

an essential destination for anyone responsible for

sourcing new lines or

spotting trends before

they break.

Distinctive to this

year’s Expo is a

spotlight on Future

Foods, a dedicated

space that celebrates

the brands redefining

the idea of what

‘good food’ can be.

Here, visitors can

expect to find wellness-driven, clean-label and

sustainability-focused products that reflect the

evolving priorities of today’s consumers, marrying

taste, ethics and convenience in compelling new

ways. Beyond the product aisles, the Expo’s

dynamic content programme brings industry

insight to life, with expert talks and sessions that

tackle everything from nutritional trends to brand

positioning in a crowded marketplace – a rich

seam of content for editorial minds hungry to

report on what’s next.

Running parallel to the Expo is the National

Convenience Show, the largest event devoted to

the convenience retailing sector. The convenience

channel has emerged as one of the most agile

and opportunity-rich parts of the food and

drink market, responding adeptly to consumer

demand for quick-to-purchase solutions, local

accessibility and diverse

product offerings. At

the show, store owners,

independent retailers,

symbol groups,

wholesalers and service

providers come together

to see and sample

products and services

specifically designed to

give convenience stores

a competitive edge.

Within the halls of the National Convenience

Show, attendees will encounter a broad array

of c-store-focused solutions, including impulse

purchase items, ready-to-eat offerings, drinks

innovations and retail technology designed to

drive footfall and increase basket value. The

show also serves as a

vital networking hub

for this diverse sector,

where conversations

span merchandising

strategy, payment

systems, loyalty

programmes and

ways to make the

convenience retail

format more efficient

and profitable. This

concentrated focus on

the unique needs of convenience retail makes the

show particularly valuable for anyone operating

or supplying in this rapidly evolving retail

segment.

Completing the trio of

core shows is the Farm

Shop & Deli Show, a

celebration of the UK’s

speciality food and

drink community where

quality, provenance and

uniqueness take centre

stage. Over three days,

attendees are invited to

sample and source the

finest local and regional

products, from artisanal

cheeses and charcuterie to bespoke preserves,

craft beverages and speciality pantry items. The

show is designed for buyers from farm shops,

delis, independent retailers and online speciality

stores who want to curate distinctive offerings

that tell a story and delight discerning consumers.

In 2026, the Farm Shop & Deli Show introduces

a new dedicated spotlight on Coffee Shops &

Cafés, recognising the booming food-to-go

market and the important role independent

cafés play in today’s retail landscape. This new

area highlights the latest trends in coffee, baked

goods, equipment and service solutions that are

propelling this sub-sector forward, and gives

visitors a chance to engage with products that tap

directly into the expanding demand for highquality,

on-the-go experiences. Across the floor,

live events, panel discussions and trend sessions

deepen understanding of market shifts and

retailer strategies, making the show as educational

as it is inspirational.

Taken together, these three co-located

shows reflect the multifaceted nature of the

contemporary food

and drink marketplace.

They are where

innovation meets

commerce, where

conversations lead to

connections, and where

trends are not just

observed but actively

shaped. Whether

you’re interested in

the rise of plant-based

alternatives, strategies

for convenience retail success, or the enduring

appeal of artisanal quality – the UK Food &

Drink Shows provide an unrivalled vantage point.

www.ukfoodanddrinkshows.co.uk

12


Gluten free, it’s what we do

BB’s Bakery will be

exhibiting at Farm

Shop & Deli Show on

13th-15th April at the

NEC, Birmingham at

Stand N169.

At this year’s Farm Shop

& Deli Show, visitors

keen to discover standout

artisan producers should

make a beeline for the

vibrant stand of BB’s

Bakery Ltd. Based in

Cornwall, this multiaward-winning

bakery is

redefining what gluten-free

can taste like – delivering

irresistible cakes, bakes

and patisserie that delight

specialist retailers and

everyday customers alike.

Founded in 2020 by Sarah

– who is gluten-free herself – BB’s Bakery has

grown from humble beginnings into a celebrated

artisan producer, built on a personal passion for

exceptional free-from baking. Operating from a

dedicated gluten-free kitchen that is fully coeliac

safe, the team create everything with care, using

high-quality ingredients and locally sourced

produce wherever possible to ensure consistency

and flavour in every batch.

What sets BB’s Bakery apart is its impressive

breadth and uncompromising

quality. The range spans

indulgent traybakes and loaf

cakes, award-winning desserts

such as vegan honeycomb

tiffin, raspberry blondies

and cheesecake brownies,

alongside flavoured scones

and beautifully finished

celebration cakes made

to order. The bakery also

produces themed cupcakes

and bespoke occasion bakes,

with many products suitable

for dairy-free and vegan

customers. Lovingly crafted

using

premium

ingredients,

the

collection

is available

for

wholesale

supply, home delivery or

collection – making it

perfectly suited to farm shops,

cafés, delis and independent

retailers seeking dependable

free-from lines.

Wholesale partners across

the UK prize BB’s Bakery for

both reliability and creativity.

With a low minimum order,

FARM SHOP & DELI SHOW PREVIEW

straightforward online ordering and a diverse

product portfolio, the bakery makes it easy

for businesses to expand their gluten-free and

free-from offering without complexity. Eyecatching

presentation and strong shelf appeal

further enhance the commercial opportunity for

stockists.

The bakery’s excellence has been recognised

repeatedly at industry awards, with multiple

commendations and gold medals in free-from

categories – a testament to its dedication to

flavour, texture and consistency.

At the Farm Shop & Deli Show, BB’s Bakery

promises to be a must-visit exhibitor for buyers

seeking inclusive bakery

lines that deliver on taste

as well as profitability.

Whether strengthening an

existing free-from range

or discovering an artisan

producer with a genuine

story, visitors will find

plenty to be inspired by.

Don’t miss the

opportunity to sample

their celebrated bakes –

your customers will thank

you.

T 01209 255225

cake@bbsbakery.com

www.bbsbakery.com



The Shropshire Scratching Company

he Shropshire

Scratching Company is

Tproud to be exhibiting

at the Farm Shop & Deli

Show in April 2026, bringing

a modern approach to one

of Britain’s most familiar

snacks. Based in Shropshire

and shaped by traditional

Black Country techniques, the

business was founded on a

simple belief: pork scratchings

should be something retail

customers are pleased to buy

and distributors are proud to

stock.

Like many independent

family run businesses, our

story began with a sense

that something had been lost along the way.

Pork scratchings had gradually become a lowexpectation

product. We felt they really did

deserve better. Not reinvention for the sake of it,

but care, patience and respect for a snack that

has long been part of British food culture.

Everything we make is cooked in small batches

using carefully selected cuts of pork. The cooking

process is deliberately unhurried, allowing the

fat to render properly

so the result is a deep,

satisfying crunch with

full flavour. After

cooking, each batch is

seasoned and placed in

a premium foil backed

packet to seal in flavour

and product texture.

This process is also a

key part to extending

shelf life too. It’s a

slower way of working

but it ensures consistency and quality in every

bag that leaves us.

When developing the concept of seasoning, we

had a simple mantra, rather than chasing endless

flavours, we concentrated on four that naturally

complimented the product itself and each earn

their place on the shelf.

Traditional Old English delivers a classic,

savoury crunch that appeals

to purists and first-time buyers

alike. Salt & Cider Vinegar

adds a sharp, familiar twist

that works just as well in

a pub setting as it does in

a farm shop. Sweet Maple

brings warmth and richness,

attracting customers looking

for something slightly

different, while Thai Sweet

Chilli introduces a gentle heat

without overpowering the

flavour of the product.

We are pleased that our

approach has been recognised

by both our continued

customer growth and within

the industry. In 2026, three

flavours from the range

were awarded Gold at the

Farm Shop & Deli Product

Awards. The previous year,

every flavour won Best New

Product at The Ludlow

Food Festival. For us, these

independently judged awards

matter because they come

from genuine institutions that

understand food, quality and

consistency.

That recognition is echoed

in the feedback we hear

from stockists. One longstanding

stockist, Apley Farm

Shop, told us, “We ordered

Shropshire Scratchings as

a trial and they quickly

became one of our most purchased savoury lines.

Customers come back specifically asking for

them, which is exactly what you want from shelf

space.”

Working closely with independent farm shops,

delis and pubs, we understand the realities of

family-run retail. Shelf space is precious, margins

matter and trust is built slowly. Our packaging

was purposely designed to be premium yet

traditional, allowing

it to sit comfortably

alongside other

high-quality British

products. Performing

well as an impulse buy,

a hamper addition or

a small treat purchase,

makes them flexible

across a variety of retail

environments.

They’ve also proven

popular in the licensed trade. The Bricklayers

Arms, an independent pub stockist, shared,

“They’re a genuine upgrade on our usual bar

snacks. Customers commented on the difference

straight away and all the flavours pair brilliantly,

with many of our beers. They definitely fit with

the type of pub that we are.”

Consistency is something we’re particularly

proud of. Because everything is produced in

small batches with a clear,

repeatable process, stockists

know exactly what they’re

getting every time they

reorder. That reliability has

helped build relationships

with retailers who value

products that quietly perform

week after week.

Saxtons Deli summed it up

simply, “We like stocking

products that feel honest.

These scratchings have a clear

story, great flavour and no

unnecessary fluff. Once people

try them, they sell themselves.”

Exhibiting at the Farm

Shop & Deli Show is an

opportunity for us to meet more retailers

face to face, share samples and have proper

conversations about food and customers. We’re

interested in building a relationship with trusted

and respected partners. We’re interested in

understanding how different businesses work and

where a product like ours genuinely fits.

Battlefield Farm Shop, who introduced the range

last year, told us, “It’s rare to find a snack that

appeals across age groups. These work just as

well with our older regulars as with younger

customers looking for something new to try from

our range of products.”

Visitors to the Farm Shop & Deli Show are

invited to sample the full range at our Stand

X182 and learn more about the people and

thought behind the brand. At The Shropshire

Scratching Company, we are looking forward to

connecting with companies who value quality,

provenance and products made with care. We are

committed to play a small, but meaningful, part

in Britain’s independent food scene.

https://theshropshirescratchingcompany.com



Equipping professional kitchens with confidence

Midshires Catering Equipment Limited

will be exhibiting at the Farm Shop &

Deli Show 2026 on 13-15 April on Stand

Y160.

Midshires Catering Equipment Limited

is a specialist supplier of commercial

catering equipment,

supporting foodservice

businesses across the

UK with reliable,

high-performance

kitchen solutions.

From independent

cafés and delis to

restaurants, pubs and

hospitality venues, the

company works closely

with operators to ensure

kitchens are equipped to deliver consistent

quality and efficient service.

With extensive industry experience, Midshires

focuses on supplying robust, professionalgrade

equipment designed to withstand the

demands of busy commercial kitchens. Its

portfolio covers a wide range of essential

appliances, including commercial dishwashers,

glasswashers, ice machines, combi ovens,

refrigeration units and cooking equipment.

What’s more, Midshires is particularly well

known for its expertise in warewashing

equipment, supplying and supporting some of

the most widely used commercial glasswashers

and dishwashers in the hospitality sector.

In addition to

equipment sales,

Midshires offers

flexible rental and hire

solutions, giving food

and drink businesses

a practical alternative

to purchasing outright.

Rental options allow

operators to access

high-quality commercial

appliances without

significant upfront

investment, which can

be particularly valuable

Tuk In Foods: The UK’s

fastest growing food-togo

brand

uk In Foods has swiftly emerged

Tas the UK’s fastest growing

food-to-go brand, capturing the

hearts and palates of food enthusiasts

nationwide. Specialising in Indian

street food-inspired dishes, Tuk In is

revolutionising the culinary landscape

with its innovative and delicious

offerings.

The company’s meteoric rise can

be attributed to three core pillars

that define its mission. First and

foremost, Tuk In Foods is dedicated

to delivering restaurant-quality Indian

cuisine. Each dish is crafted with the

finest ingredients, ensuring that every

bite bursts with authentic flavours

reminiscent of India’s bustling street

food markets. This commitment to

quality elevates the brand above

its competitors, offering a dining

experience that rivals the best Indian

restaurants.

Secondly, the passionate team behind

Tuk In Foods is a driving force of

the brand’s success. Their deep love

for Indian cuisine translates into an

unwavering dedication to excellence,

infusing every product with a touch

of authenticity & care. This passion

resonates with customers, fostering

a loyal & growing fanbase that

appreciates the brand’s genuine

connection to the rich culinary

traditions of India.

Finally, Tuk In Foods stands out as

an established brand that continues

to expand its reach. With a rapidly

increasing number of satisfied

customers, the brand’s popularity is

soaring. This growth is a testament to

Tuk In’s ability to meet the evolving

tastes and preferences of the modern

consumer, who seeks convenience

without compromising on quality.

Come see us on Stand CC79.

hello@tukinfoods.com

www.tukinfoods.com

What sets Midshires apart is

its end-to-end approach to

kitchen equipment. Rather

than simply supplying

products, the business works

with operators from the early

consultation stage through to

installation, demonstration

and ongoing maintenance.

Its experienced team

provides practical

guidance on selecting

the right equipment

for each environment,

helping businesses

maximise efficiency,

reliability and longterm

value in their

kitchens.

HK Interiors Ltd

HK Interiors Ltd is a

national design and

shopfitting company serving

retail, commercial, and

public sectors across the UK.

We specialise in providing

a comprehensive turnkey

package, including shopfitting,

refurbishments, new unit fitouts,

business redesigns, and

expansions.

Customer satisfaction is

central to our business, from

the initial concept through to

the site fitting of all trades.

Our expert team of designers

and installers ensures that

every project is tailored to

meet each business’ specific

requirements.

We leverage our extensive

knowledge and expertise to

support clients in producing

original and unique concepts,

regardless of the project’s

size. We take pride in our

exceptional service and

unwavering dedication to

client satisfaction.

for new ventures, seasonal operations, pop-ups

or businesses looking to manage cash flow.

The company also provides maintenance and

servicing support throughout the rental period

to ensure equipment continues to perform at its

best.

Beyond supply and rental, Midshires delivers

a comprehensive aftersales service, including

installation, repairs and ongoing maintenance

carried out by experienced engineers. This

ensures that commercial kitchens remain

operational with minimal downtime – a

critical factor for foodservice businesses where

equipment reliability directly impacts service

and revenue.

By combining industry expertise, quality

equipment and flexible purchasing or rental

options, Midshires has become a trusted partner

for operators looking to

build efficient, dependable

commercial kitchens. For

food and drink businesses

seeking practical solutions

that support day-to-day

operations, the company

provides the equipment,

expertise and service needed

to keep kitchens running

smoothly.

T 0333 123 4560

dishwashers@midshires.co.uk

https://midshires.co.uk

Our team specialises in

fulfilling all shopfitting

requirements for the food

retail industry. Catering to

both independent retailers and

large chain stores, we have

the competence, experience,

and vision not only to

execute the work but also to

provide valuable insights on

maximising space, creating

unique environments, and

achieving cost savings without

compromising the quality of

the finish.

T 01143 177929

F 0844 288 2965

sales@hk-interiors.co.uk

www.hk-interiors.co.uk

16



A sustainably sourced

dairy-free alternative

G

iraf Macadamia will

be exhibiting at 2026’s

Farm Shop and Deli

Show at Stand N189 and

is expected to showcase its

premium line of macadamiabased

drinks to an excited

crowd.

Giraf Macadamia is a plantbased,

dairy-free, eco-conscious

macadamia nut milk from South

Africa, it’s rich and creamy with

no added seed oils and the entire

range is barista friendly. The

young company’s mission is to

create a smooth, clean, guilt-free

experience that suits any lifestyle

and Giraf has set a new taste

standard in delicious, planet

friendly, sustainably sourced

plant milk alternatives.

The company sources its macadamia nuts from

over 200 farmers within 100km of its Mpumalanga

factory in South Africa, ensuring ethical and

responsible farming practices that support both the

environment and local communities. Giraf employs

130 people and supports educational initiatives

and learnership programs, contributing to the

continuous upliftment of its local communities and

gives 20% if its profits back to its farmers.

Once harvested, Giraf’s

premium macadamia nuts

go through a curing process

before they’re cracked, sorted,

and transformed into delicious

macadamia nuts that are

then roasted and pasted at its

facility in White River before

being made into the unique

Giraf Macadamia Milk. The

company maintains personal

relationships with all its

farmers and thus keeps full

traceability for each batch,

ensuring the highest quality from farm to customer.

Endorsed by the Vegetarian Society, Giraf

Macadamia is the perfect choice for those seeking

a dairy-free lifestyle without compromising on

taste or texture. Being nut-based, the company’s

products are also certified gluten-free (including

the macadamia with oats variant). So, whether

you’re lactose intolerant or gluten intolerant, Giraf’s

Macadamia drinks provide

a safe, certified and delicious

alternative to dairy.

Offering four variants in

the UK, Giraf’s product line

includes its Original milk which

has a subtle, nutty flavour,

and is designed to be as close

to dairy milk as possible, an

unsweetened variant for the

die-hard no-sugar crowd, a

macadamia with oats variant

which is smooth and velvety and

the award-winning macadamia

milk with Vanilla extract from

Madagascar (winner of two

Gold Awards at the Food and

Home Awards in Cape Town).

Giraf’s range of macadamia

milks are crafted to be enjoyed on their own,

added to smoothies, poured over cereal, or frothed

to perfection in coffee. Crafted for an ultra-rich,

creamy texture that rivals traditional dairy and with

no added seed oils, Giraf Macadamia Milk is rich

in Omega 3, 6 & 7, healthy fats, zinc and essential

minerals too.

Perfect at home as well as for baristas, Giraf has

built a close community of consumers and coffee

partners. Its Monthly Drop subscription service

provides customers with a sixpack

of its macadamia milk,

delivered to their door, and

coffee shops across the world

have praised Giraf for its rich

and creamy milk, that won’t

split and textures up nicely

under heat.

From soil preparation and

insect ecosystems, to water

conservation and nurturing

saplings; Giraf Macadamia are

also committed to maintaining

harmony with the local

environment. Its farms are AmberGAP certified and

it takes two years of groundwork and an additional

four years of careful tending before Giraf’s

macadamia trees yield their first nuts, ensuring good

agricultural practices that prioritise sustainability

and harmony with the environment.

Giraf is also committed to being carbon negative,

employing eco-conscious water management

systems and utilising ecologically sound husks and

shells to create electricity, reducing the company’s

environmental footprint.

Additionally, Giraf’s packaging

is also 100% recyclable.

Held at the NEC Birmingham,

Giraf Macadamia is set for

an exciting exhibition at The

Farm Shop and Deli Show this

year. The show gives attendees

the chance to experience the

best quality local and regional produce, and the

up-and-coming company’s inclusion marks an

important moment for Giraf.

With access to over 25,000 visitors the company is

expected to showcase their latest product offerings

as well as provide greater depth to their pioneering

sustainability and

ecological policies.

Set for the 13th-15th

of April, the show is

the ideal opportunity

to see exactly how

Giraf operates

and how their

groundbreaking work

in alternative milk is

not just changing the

sector, but the planet

at large.

Giraf Macadamia

is a company that

lives the ethos it

was built on. Aside from crafting delicious, creamy

milk alternatives that are kind to the planet and

your health, the company has invested heavily into

supporting the ecosystem and community that help

bring its product to life.

By working for both the consumer and the planet,

the brand has elevated its

offering to something more

than just dairy-free milk. Giraf

Macadamia Milk isn’t just a

product; it’s passion poured

into every sip.

M 07860 270700

info@girafmacadamia.com

https://girafmacadamia.co.uk


FOOD & DRINK EXPO PREVIEW

We cry for you

Smits Onions at Food & Drink Expo 2026 –

NEC Birmingham

In professional kitchens, onions are

everywhere, yet the work behind them often

remains invisible. Peeling, trimming and

cutting consume valuable time before service

even begins. Labour hours disappear into miseen-place,

while waste accumulates on prep

tables and floors. At Smits, we take that work

off your hands.

“We cry for you” captures the essence of our

business. We transform high-quality Dutch

onions into ready-to-use solutions that perform

like a fresh ingredient, but deliver like a

professional system. For the UK market, even

peeled onions are still gaining traction. Many

operations continue to start from raw produce

simply because that is how it has always

been done. Yet in a market defined by labour

shortages, cost pressure and tighter margins,

tradition can quickly become expensive. Smits

offers a smarter alternative.

Farm to fork – Built on control

Everything begins in the field. We work closely

with selected growers, choosing white, red and

shallot varieties that meet strict processing

standards. By controlling the chain from farm

to fork, we control the outcome. Every batch is

traceable and processed in a modern, hygienic

production environment where skilled people

and advanced technology operate side by side.

The result is a product that is clean, consistent

and reliable, batch after batch.

Our onions are 100% natural, with no

additives. Ready-to-use should never mean

compromised. Professional buyers expect

transparency and integrity, and our production

standards are built around those expectations.

Whole peeled – The smart first step

For many UK operators, whole peeled onions

represent the first meaningful operational

upgrade. By removing peeling in-house,

kitchens immediately reduce preparation time

and eliminate peeling waste. There are no

skins to dispose of, no trimming losses and no

unnecessary handling steps. Teams can focus on

cooking rather than repetitive prep work. Yield

becomes more predictable.

Labour can be allocated

where it adds value. In

a climate where staffing

remains one of the biggest

operational challenges,

peeled onions help save

labour costs and support

more efficient kitchen

management.

Precision cut – The next

logical move

Once peeling is centralised,

the next logical step is

cutting. Smits produces

precision-cut onions

developed specifically

for foodservice and food

manufacturing. Uniform

dice, accurate 5mm and

10mm cuts, clean slices and perfectly formed

rings are processed under strictly controlled

conditions. This uniformity directly influences

performance. Even cuts ensure predictable

cooking behaviour and consistent moisture

release. Precise rings stabilise frying times and

presentation. When every

cut behaves the same

way, output becomes

predictable and waste

decreases, strengthening

cost control across the

chain.

Shelf life that supports

commercial planning

Smits onions offer a shelf

life of up to eleven days,

depending on format

and storage conditions.

That extended window

supports more accurate

forecasting and better

stock rotation. Longer

shelf life means fewer

write-offs and greater

supply chain stability.

In practical terms, it contributes to zero waste

thinking and improved profitability.

Built for modern food operations

Across retail, grocery, hospitality and

manufacturing, decision makers must deliver

more with fewer resources. By centralising

peeling and cutting in a controlled production

environment, Smits simplifies operations for its

partners. From farm to fork, we deliver onion

expertise that transforms a basic ingredient into

a controlled, performance-driven component of

your business.

Meet Smits at Food & Drink Expo 2026

We are proud to introduce our professional

onion solutions to the UK market during

Food & Drink Expo (13-15 April 2026, NEC

Birmingham). Whether you are exploring peeled

onions for the first time or ready to move

towards precision-cut solutions, we invite you

to visit our stand and experience the quality and

commercial advantage first-hand.

Food & Drink Expo, Hall 3, Stand F161

Discover more at: www.smitsuien.nl


FOOD & DRINK EXPO PREVIEW

VendNation

Based in the West Midlands,

VendNation has become one

of the UK’s leading suppliers of

photobooths and entertainment

solutions for the hospitality and

leisure sectors; from bars and

nightclubs to conference venues and

hotels.

Studies suggest

that 74% of

consumers

would visit

a venue if

it offered

activity-led

or premium

experiences.

VendNation’s

solutions meet

these growing

expectations

perfectly,

helping venues

to retain

customers,

build dwell

time and increase spend-per-head,

all without adding additional costs

or draining staff resources!

With a team of experienced joiners

and technicians, VendNation

build, install and maintain bespoke

branded photobooths at absolutely

zero cost to the venue.

VendNation additionally supply a

wide variety of arcade machines

from boxer machines to motorbike

simulators. They have also recently

introduced an Interactive Darts

station with a 5-point camera

tracking system and wide selection

of exciting and accessible games.

Just like their

photobooths,

these are offered

to venues

custom-branded

and fully-serviced

on a revenue

share basis, with

no installation

costs or monthly

maintenance

charges.

VendNation

are excited to

be at the Food

& Drink Show

showcasing their

photobooth and

Interactive Darts, giving venue

operators an insight into how they

can level up their spaces and unlock

new revenue streams.

Come see us on Stand H208.

T 0333 577 2292

support@vendnation.co.uk

www.vendnation.co.uk

Innovative marketing

for the hospitality sector

raphic Kitchen will be exhibiting

Gat Stand E210 at the Food &

Drink Expo, 13-15 April 2026 at

Birmingham’s NEC, showcasing

its specialist expertise in hospitality

branding and marketing.

Founded in 2014 by Sachin Parmar,

Graphic Kitchen

is a hospitalityfocused

branding

and marketing

agency dedicated

to putting Bums

on Seats & Heads

in Beds. Working

exclusively with

bars, restaurants

and hotels, the

agency delivers

strategic brand

development and

performance-led

marketing designed

to drive measurable

growth.

Graphic Kitchen’s

services span brand identity, menu

design and architecture, food and

interior photography, high-converting

hospitality websites, SEO and

AI visibility strategy, hyper-local

marketing campaigns and TripAdvisor

reputation workshops. By combining

creative excellence with commercial

insight, the agency helps hospitality

businesses stand out in competitive

markets.

The company also integrates Shadow

AI strategy, ensuring venues are

structured to be discovered not only

through traditional

search engines, but

across AI-driven

recommendation

platforms where

customers are

increasingly

choosing where to

eat, drink and stay.

With over 20

years’ experience

and 37+ five-star

Google reviews,

Graphic Kitchen

continues to

reshape hospitality

marketing for the

modern, AI-driven

era.

See how we turn branding into

bookings.

T 0204 634 020

hello@graphickitchen.co.uk

www.graphickitchen.co.uk

20


NATIONAL CONVENIENCE SHOW PREVIEW

DRS and the convenience sector:

Winning through partnership

By Stewart Vincent, Managing Director, RVM

Systems UK

T

he UK’s Deposit Return

Scheme is approaching.

For the convenience

sector, the debate so far has

centred on cost, space and

disruption, understandably so.

Convenience retail operates on

disciplined economics. Space is

finite. Labour models are lean.

Customer missions are short and

frequent. Any operational addition

must justify itself quickly.

DRS will introduce new infrastructure into

that environment. Participation in DRS is inevitable.

The real risk lies in delayed planning and poor

implementation. And, the more important question for

the sector is this: How do we ensure DRS strengthens

convenience rather than constraining it?

Designed around retail reality

RVM Systems UK is part of the international

RVM Systems Group, a specialist provider of

reverse vending solutions with more than 30 years’

experience and over 14,000 machines operating

globally. In the UK, the business is led by a team with

direct experience across retail formats, including

convenience, from store operations through to

development and layout design.

That combination matters.

We understand firsthand

the pressures

facing retailers: space

constraints, labour

efficiency, customer flow

and margin protection.

Reverse vending must fit

seamlessly into the store,

not disrupt it.

Our approach is grounded

not only in engineering

capability, but in practical

retail delivery. Every

solution is evaluated

against store layout,

colleague workload and

customer behaviour.

Start with store economics

Reverse vending is often

discussed in technical

terms: throughput, capacity and footprint. For

convenience retailers, the questions are commercial:

● What is the opportunity cost of the space?

● What happens at peak times?

● How often will colleagues need to intervene?

● What it the true ten-year cost of ownership?

At RVM Systems, we work with operators to ensure

DRS is integrated into the economics of convenience,

not layered on top of it.

These are commercial questions, not engineering ones.

In convenience, protecting selling space is protecting

margin. Protecting colleague time is protecting service.

DRS must be evaluated through that lens first.

There is no ‘standard’ convenience store

One of the sector’s strengths is its diversity: high

street, neighbourhood, forecourt, travel and hybrid

formats all operate differently. That means there

is unlikely to be a single deployment model

that suits every store.

In some locations, compact

internal machines will integrate

cleanly. In others, protecting

high-yield selling space may

justify an external solution. In

higher-volume environments,

under-specifying capacity may

create queues and lost deposits as

customers seek faster alternatives.

The right answer will depend on

layout, projected return volumes and longterm

estate strategy, not on uniformity alone.

Planning for reality, not assumption

In live DRS markets across Europe, retailers have

learned that return volumes can vary significantly

by location. Planning to receive 100% of your own

container sales back through the machine is a sensible

starting point. In practice, volumes may be lower

in some areas, and considerably higher in others,

particularly where customers gravitate toward stores

offering a faster experience.

That variability reinforces the importance of

thoughtful capacity planning, adaptability, and service

design from the outset.

Reliability also becomes mission-critical. When DRS

goes live, reverse vending is no longer a sustainability

accessory, it is core

infrastructure. Uptime,

response times and

colleague simplicity matter

as much as compaction

ratios.

From compliance to

customer habit

There is a broader

opportunity here.

In established DRS

markets, deposit

returns have increased

visit frequency in

many locations. When

infrastructure is reliable

and customer experience is

smooth, container return

becomes part of routine

shopping behaviour.

For convenience operators, frequency is powerful.

Each deposit represents not just a refund, but a store

visit. The commercial benefit depends on integration.

If DRS creates queues or friction, it damages the

experience. If it integrates seamlessly into flow, it can

reinforce footfall.

That outcome is not automatic. It is designed.

Partnership, not transaction

DRS is not a one-off equipment purchase. It is an

operational programme that will run for years.

The convenience sector has successfully navigated

structural change before, from tobacco and vaping

legislation to digital transformation. Those transitions

worked best when retailers engaged early and worked

with partners who understood store reality.

At RVM Systems UK, our focus is on integrating

reverse vending into the economics of the store,

balancing footprint, capacity, commercial structure

and service model to suit individual formats. With

extensive international deployment experience

and proven large-scale installations, we bring both

operational capability and retail insight to the

conversation.

A moment for practical dialogue

As the National Convenience Show approaches (13-15

April 2026, NEC Birmingham), the sector will rightly

continue to debate cost and compliance.

Perhaps the more productive conversation is this: How

can DRS be implemented in a way that protects selling

space, protects margin and strengthens visit frequency?

The scheme is coming. The success will depend not

only on the machines themselves, but on the quality of

planning and partnership behind them.

We invite you to meet with us at Stand RR79 and

continue that conversation.

www.rvmsystems.co.uk


NATIONAL CONVENIENCE SHOW PREVIEW

Epta UK: Commercial

refrigeration and air

conditioning solutions

Epta dedicate their time to being

a sustainable leader in UK

commercial refrigeration. With a

fully integrated solution through

system design, manufacture,

installation, service and support,

Epta specialise across the complete

customer journey. Epta are on a

mission to redefine agility, with a

UK manufacturing facility paired

with global scale, and capability

of the wider group. They also

just so happen to engineer and

manufacture the most efficient

and effective refrigeration

cabinets in the market!

As a champion of natural

refrigerants, Epta are proud of

being front and centre of the CO 2

revolution, with Propane (R290) as

it’s secondary natural refrigerant of

choice. Their CO 2 training school

is dedicated to training the next

generation of engineers, recognising

the future challenge of the skills

gap in the industry. Consistently

innovating, Epta continues to

develop world firsts.

DoubleCOOL at the NCS to advance their

mission to put doors on fridges

Across the UK,

retailers continue

to offer chilled goods

in open chillers. The

refrigeration units

work hard to keep

goods cool, while

constantly combatting

store temperatures.

If you’re a retailer

who still operates

open chillers, then

you have a fantastic

opportunity to lower

your refrigerator electricity costs by as much

as 50%, simply by retrofitting DoubleCOOL

acrylic fridge doors.

DoubleCOOL chiller doors are manufactured

from cast acrylic. This makes the doors

lightweight to use, and able to stand up

to constant use over a very long period of

time. Acrylic is also shatterproof, and 100%

condensation free.

DoubleCOOL’s retrofit solution is adaptable to

most open chillers commonly in use. With the

24 hour convenience sector in mind, retrofitting

of doors often takes place during open hours.

From the moment the doors are installed,

retailers start to save, and return on investment

Renowned for the commitment and

expertise of their colleagues, and

strategic partnerships with multiple

UK grocery retailers, Epta are

redefining commercial refrigeration

in the UK.

Bradford Office:

+44 (0)1274 703200

Ringwood Office:

+44 (0)1425 485700

info@eptarefrigeration.com

www.epta-uk.com

is typically, less than

a year.

The benefits of

DoubleCOOL doors

are clear

The cost savings are

made by reducing

energy consumption,

which is not only

economically beneficial,

but also means reduced

CO 2 emissions. After a

long life in service, the

acrylic panels can also be recycled.

The doors are frameless and crystal clear,

showing off the chilled produce in a great light.

Once introduced,

shoppers often

think there’s been

an investment in

completely new

fridges, the aesthetic is

so sleek!

As chillers with doors

operate at a consistent

temperature, food

is kept fresher, food

waste is minimal,

Solv-X: Smart,

sustainable consumer

accessory solutions for

modern retail

olv-X is a leading provider of smart,

Sinnovative consumer accessory

solutions, supporting retailers with

products designed to enhance in-store

experience, strengthen category

performance, and drive long-term

growth. With a global sourcing

infrastructure and more than 50 trusted

factory partners, Solv-X delivers highquality

ranges across 16 categories,

including home, baby, kitchen, pet,

electrical accessories, and more.

What sets Solv-X apart is its

commitment to Smart, Sustainable,

Attentive solutions. The company’s

direct-from-factory sourcing model

offers retailers lower costs, higher

margins, and full transparency

throughout the supply chain. This is

backed by intelligent category planning,

customised planograms, joint business

planning, and hands-on field support to

optimise merchandising and maximise

sales.

Sustainability is a core priority, and

Solv-X is actively moving towards

having all product packaging made

from fully recyclable materials. This

ongoing transition supports retailers

in meeting their own environmental

commitments while offering consumers

responsible choices on the shelf.

As Solv-X prepares to exhibit at the

UK Food and Drink Trade Show this

April, the business looks forward to

showcasing its latest innovations and

building new partnerships that help

retailers deliver exceptional, futureready

non-food ranges.

Come see us on Stand EE04 in Hall 4.

sales@solv-x.com

www.solv-x.com

and cold drinks are cold from back to

front. Installing DoubleCOOL fridge doors

also improves the technical lifetime of the

refrigeration system, as it no longer has to work

hard to contend with hot weather, or store

heating, the potential for chiller breakdowns is

also reduced, and the chiller’s life extended.

An investment with great payback

Head to DoubleCOOL UK’s website and check

out their energy saving calculator. Simply enter

your energy cost /kWh and meters of open

chillers to gain an indication of the savings that

could be made. Check out the customer case

studies and testimonials too.

The friendly DoubleCOOL team – handily

based in the Midlands – are on hand to talk

about your specific

requirements, schedule

a visit and prepare your

quote.

Find out more about the

benefits of DoubleCOOL

doors by visiting the NCS

Stand EE79, or

www.doublecooluk.com

– or call 01283 586028

or email:

sales@doublecooluk.com

22


DRINKS MATTERS

Miko launches Spring Summer Drink

Collection 2026 to unlock seasonal sales

Apple Elderflower &

Strawberry Drizzle

Iced Mocha with whipped

cream and pistachios

Lemonade Elderflower

& Triple-Peach

Miko has launched its new Spring

Summer Drink Collection 2026, a

curated range of creative hot and cold

drink recipes designed to help foodservice and

bar operators maximise customer spend during

the warmer months.

Developed by the Miko Recipe Development

Team and incorporating SHOTT Super

Concentrates, the Collection responds to

evolving consumer expectations around flavour,

customisation and premium non-alcoholic

drinks, while remaining practical to deliver in

busy hospitality environments.

“The role of drinks on menus has changed

significantly,” said Jenna Horsnell, Marketing

and Commercial Manager at Miko Coffee.

“Consumers are looking for more than just

refreshment – they want flavour, theatre and a

sense of indulgence, whether they’re ordering

a coffee, a soft drink or a low or no alcohol

option.”

The Collection features high-margin, on-trend

serves, including hot and frozen coffees, iced

lattes, matcha drinks, chai, hot chocolates,

milkshakes, lemonades, spritzers and granitas.

Recipes are designed to work across multiple

dayparts, helping operators refresh menus and

introduce seasonal specials without adding

operational complexity.

One of the standout trends reflected in the

Collection is the rise of dessert-inspired drinks

as all-day options, with nostalgic flavours

reimagined in lighter, more drinkable formats.

Recipes such as Sticky Toffee Pudding Iced

Latte, Berry Crumble Custard Iced Matcha

and Cherry Bakewell Milkshake sit alongside

frozen fruity lemonades, flavoured spritzers

and granitas to cater to warmer weather and

refreshment-led occasions.

“Dessert flavours are no longer confined

to after-dinner treats,” said Jenna. “When

reworked into cold or lighter formats, they

perform just as well during the day and

pair naturally with lunchtime and takeaway

purchases, helping operators drive incremental

spend.”

As drinks continue to play a bigger role in

driving value, the Collection supports the

growing demand for flavour-led low and no

alcohol serves that feel considered and premium.

For operators, these drinks add visual appeal,

elevate perceived value and encourage trade-up,

turning everyday visits into more memorable

experiences.

The Miko Spring Summer Drink Collection 2026

is now available to foodservice and hospitality

operators, offering practical inspiration to

drive engagement and incremental revenue

throughout the spring and summer seasons.

https://mikocoffee.co.uk

Elderflower & Mint

Frozen Lemonade

Iced Matcha

Cherry Bakewell

Salted Pistachio milkshake

with caramel Sauce


LOGIMAT PREVIEW

LogiMAT 2026 in Stuttgart:

LogiMAT innovation cluster

innovations are once again making LogiMAT 2026 an

important innovation cluster for efficient intralogistics

solutions,” boasts LogiMAT Exhibition Director,

Michael Ruchty, from event organiser EUROEXPO

Messe- und Kongress-GmbH in Munich. “This gives

industry professionals a sneak peek at today’s trends

and tomorrow’s solutions.”

xhibitors from around the world representing

every segment of the intralogistics industry are

Ecoming to LogiMAT 2026 to present their very

latest innovations. And with well over 100 premieres

already announced, industry professionals can look

forward to an exclusive sneak peek at the trends of

today and the solutions of tomorrow.

LogiMAT 2026 is opening its doors March 24-26

at the Messe Stuttgart convention centre. This year’s

theme of ‘PASSION FOR DETAILS – Discover the

Difference’ focuses on both proven solutions and

state-of-the-art innovations for efficient, sustainable

intralogistics processes. Exhibitors have already

announced plans to once again present well over 100

European and global product premieres.

New this year: Special logos on the exhibit hall floor

will guide visitors directly to the booths of many of

the exhibitors debuting new products. “The exhibitors

from around the world who are unveiling new product

Exhibitors representing every segment of the industry

are presenting their latest developments for dynamic

material flows, smart data capture and processing,

warehouse systems, plus new handhelds and wearables.

In keeping with this year’s theme, the focus is often on

the frequently inconspicuous details of smart solutions,

offering visitors fresh perspectives to help them make

sound investments that will stand the test of time.

Kostal Industrie Elektrik (Hall 3, Booth 3B71) is

coming to Stuttgart with premieres in the field of

decentralised drive technology. The new Inveor MC1

frequency inverter, in the MC104 variant, is designed

specifically to meet the needs of the industry with

a holding brake control, internal braking resistor,

various Ethernet fieldbuses, and safety features.

Rocket Solution (Hall 1, Booth 1F66) is introducing a

live cost and layout planner that visitors can test with

their own data and that optimises the use of space and

delivers a much greater ROI in the planning of shuttle

systems.

SW-Paratus (East Entrance, Booth ES10) is presenting

the Paratus ® Change+Stack pallet changer in action

for the first time, a two-in-one warehouse system that

accelerates pallet changes and then automatically

stacks empty pallets.

WearHealth (Hall 7, Booth 7A06) is coming to

Stuttgart with the AI Ergonomics Coach, a lightweight

and unobtrusive exoskeleton with an AI-based

analytics platform. The back- or shoulder-mounted

wearable tracks movements continuously, using AI to

identify high-risk movements in real time and provide

immediate corrective feedback while work is being

performed.

Karl H. Bartels (Hall 1, Booths 1B69 and 1B71) is

presenting various shelving options and unveiling its

new Automatic Tower, offering the latest features for a

wide range of materials such as long goods, sheets, and

bulk goods.

www.logimat-messe.de/en

24


LOGIMAT PREVIEW

Crown to exhibit at LogiMAT 2026

The company showcases the new WJ 50

Series compact electric pallet truck and

other key product and service highlights.

Crown, one of the world’s largest material

handling solutions companies, will participate

in the international LogiMAT trade fair in

Stuttgart, Germany on 24-26 March 2026. At

Booth 9D41 in Exhibition Hall 9, visitors will

be able to explore Crown’s diverse portfolio,

from lift trucks and Warehouse Solutions to

V-Force Energy Solutions, across more than

200m 2 .

Innovation, quality and reliability are

deeply embedded in the DNA of the familyowned

company and remain central to the

development of new products. At this year’s

LogiMAT, visitors can experience the durability

and ergonomic design of Crown’s products

first-hand.

Product highlights include the new WJ Series

electric pallet truck and the GPC Series order

picker with platform lift and travel option.

Crown’s extensive product range includes the

new WJ 50 Series compact pallet trucks, which

deliver impressive energy efficiency thanks

to the V-Force 48-volt lithium-ion battery.

With its compact design and outstanding

manoeuvrability, this lightweight electric

pallet truck sets new standards for use in

confined spaces. Crown’s

comprehensive 3-2-1

Warranty package

highlights the durability

and quality built into

every WJ 50 Series.

Many customer reviews

especially praise the

pallet truck for its precise

handling, comfortable

driving experience and

robust design.

A further highlight is

the new platform lift

and travel option for the

GPC Series order picker.

With a wide range of

applications, outstanding

ergonomics and high

reliability, these lowlevel

order pickers boost

warehouse productivity

while delivering longterm

performance and

profitability. Built with robust, reliable Crown

quality, the GPC Series easily withstands

the demanding conditions of order picking

operations. The new platform lift and travel

option integrates the steering controls into the

lifting platform. This allows the operator to

control lifting, lowering and travel functions

simultaneously, with the platform positioned

at any height. This eliminates the need for

operators to stand at floor level when moving

horizontally, boosting productivity in the

warehouse, particularly during frequent secondlevel

order picking.

First-class global customer service

Alongside its premium products and solutions,

Crown offers a comprehensive international

sales and service network in over 80 countries.

At every location, products and services are

adapted to local market needs, contributing to a

consistently positive global customer experience.

For Crown, great customer service relies on

skilled technicians,

high-quality spare parts

and fast, reliable service

on site. This leads to a

substantial reduction

in total operating costs

and measurable added

value for customers.

This commitment is also

captured in Crown’s

brand promise: when

every minute matters,

customers can count

on Crown to keep their

businesses moving.

Thanks to its compact design and exceptional

manoeuvrability, the WJ 50 Series by Crown sets new

standards for use in confined spaces

management system along with the new Crown

ProximityAssist System. This LiDAR-based

technology actively limits travel speed as the

forklift approaches a detected object, further

enabling the operator to take appropriate

action. Crown also showcases end-to-end

warehouse solutions to optimise customer

operations, from planning and design to racking

systems and warehouse equipment. Visitors

can also learn about tailored automation and

energy solutions, such as V-Force lithium-ion

technology for efficient fleet power.

“LogiMAT is one of the most important

international trade fairs for the material

handling industry. We are delighted to showcase

many product highlights this year, particularly

the new ProximityAssist System, and to offer

visitors the chance to experience it first-hand at

our booth,” says Ken Dufford, Vice President

Europe at Crown.

www.crown.com

Crown’s GPC Series now offers a

new platform lift and travel option

that makes horizontal movement

during second-level order picking

significantly more efficient

The world of material

handling solutions – live

at the Crown booth

At the Crown booth at

LogiMAT 2026, visitors

will have the chance to

see Crown’s advanced

InfoLink operator and fleet

At this year’s LogiMAT in Stuttgart, visitors will have

the opportunity to experience Crown’s diverse material

handling solutions firsthand


BOILER SAFETY MATTERS

Deep Water Blue raises boiler safety and

performance with CEA-endorsed training

experience in boiler water treatment and

steam systems, Deep Water Blue combines

rigorous technical content with highly practical

sessions and a one hour examination, all

helping operators on their path to competence.

Successful candidates receive a CEA-branded

ID card and certificate that remain valid for five

years, giving employers tangible evidence of

training and due diligence.

Accredited by the Royal Society of

Chemistry and endorsed by the

Combustion Engineering Association,

Deep Water Blue’s intensive two day Steam

Boiler Water Treatment Training course is

designed for boiler operators, engineers and

managers, with the content translating BG04

Boiler Water Treatment Guidance and HSE

INDG436 requirements into clear, usable

actions in the boiler house.

Drawing on more than 20 years of specialist

The two day course tackles the core causes of

boiler water treatment failures and unplanned

downtime by focusing on real plant conditions,

testing routines and corrective actions that align

with BG04 and industry best practice. Delegates

learn how to recognise developing problems,

interpret test results and challenge external

contractors where necessary, protecting both

assets and energy budgets.

Deep Water Blue delivers the training at

dedicated centres, customer sites and online,

providing flexible access for NHS trusts,

universities, manufacturing plants and other

critical facilities. Recent programmes have

seen over 70 personnel complete CEA steam

boiler water training through Deep Water Blue,

supported by interactive classroom and virtual

formats.

Having completed a BG04

training course delivered by

Deep Water Blue on behalf of the

CEA, one NHS Estates Manager

commented, “The course covered

a lot of information, delivered in

concise chunks that were easy to

absorb. The structure was clear,

logical and effective, and it gave

me the confidence to implement

new testing techniques and to

understand the importance of

water treatment as an engineer

and not as a chemist.” Another

participant from EDF Energy

added, “Very good, very

informative. Gave us everything

we could want. We learnt a lot.”

The Combustion Engineering

Association has reported that the

vast majority of boiler incidents

stem from poor management of

boiler water treatment, which

makes focused, accredited

training essential for duty holders.

Deep Water Blue’s course was

developed in partnership with the

CEA to address this gap and is

delivered in plain English so that

operators and managers can apply

what they learn immediately on

site.

Deep Water Blue also supports

organisations with pre-course

introductory training, on-demand

video learning and follow-up

site visits, reinforcing skills and embedding

robust boiler water management over time. This

continuous approach helps clients achieve safe,

efficient and compliant boiler operation while

extending plant life and reducing the total cost

of ownership.

Deep Water Blue has confirmed dates

throughout 2026 for its two day Steam Boiler

Water Treatment courses, with all taking place

at the company's Training & Technical Centre

in Stevenage.

Further information can be found at:

https://bit.ly/49ZWm3n

26


CLASSIFIEDS

Beverages

Printing

Tools

Food Hygiene

We help to make sure

food is safe to eat.

That's our passion.

Ingredients

Contract Drying

Safe food hygiene solutions for your

food company.

www.christeyns.com

Catering Consultancy

Measurement Solutions

Foodservice Consultants

Ingredients

Doors & Shutters

Halal Foods

MACKLE APPLE

CIDER VINEGAR

Bulk supplies for Food

Manufacturers

BRITISH MADE APPLE CIDER

VINEGAR USING BRITISH APPLES

No sulphur or additives used

with acidity levels to suit your

requirements

Brewed in our own BRC approved

factory

PACKED IN 25 AND 1000 LITRE

CONTAINERS or Full Road Tankers

Buy Direct from manufacturer

Deliver anywhere in the UK

Tel 02887 784345 or email

anthony.conroy@mackleapple.com

Est. 1997

INDUSTRIAL

DOOR REPAIRS

AND NEW DOOR

INSTALLATIONS

Call 0114 288 9464

sales@dpdoorsandshutters.co.uk

www.dpdoorsandshutters.co.uk

28


Packaging

Steam Generators

CLASSIFIEDS

Batching

Food Hygiene

We help to make sure

food is safe to eat.

That's our passion.

Craft Distilling

Premium Dried Pasta

Safe food hygiene solutions for your

food company.

www.christeyns.com

Food Packaging

Personalised bespoke

packaging solutions for a

range of speciality food

sectors: Confectionery, Dairy,

Bakery, Delicatessen & Fish

Get in touch 01606 354664

sales@bartecpackaging.co.uk

www.bartecpackaging.co.uk

PROVIDERS OF MICRO DISTILLERY

EQUIPMENT & TURNKEY SOLUTIONS

FOR CRAFT SPIRIT PRODUCTION

The Craft Distilling Business offers bespoke

support that can be tailored to any level of

experience in distilling

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE

o Distillery equipment design & build

o License application

o Recipe development

o Team training

o Health & safety certification

o Botanical & packaging sourcing

o Maintenance

https://thecraftdistillingbusiness.com/

+44 (0)7717 207331

Machines for Food

Water Treatment

Uniball Tumbler

Mixer

Ideal for flapjack

mixes and fragile

products

Capacity 225 litres,

316 stainless steel

drum, variable speed

The machines

have been sold

to clients using a

range of different

products as coating

vegetables in oil, mixing medical powders,

Bakery recipes, flapjack mix, mixing different

nut types, marinating meat with sauces,

mixing coffee beans, food ingredients, coating

olives in flavours, flavours on nuts, pasta &

mayo. Sold worldwide to USA, New Zealand,

Hong Kong, Iceland and Europe.

01761 410345 | 01761 410332

sales@machines4food.co.uk

www.machines4food.co.uk


Food and Drink Matters Issue 193

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