Multi-award-winning writer and broadcaster Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has joined the line-up for the 25th anniversary edition of Speciality & Fine Food Fair, taking place on Tuesday 10 - Wednesday 11 September at Olympia London. 

Fearnley-Whittingstall is known for his uncompromising commitment to seasonal, ethically produced food and his concern for the environment. He has earned a huge following through his River Cottage TV series and books, as well as campaigning documentary series such as Hugh’s Fish Fight, Hugh’s War on Waste, Britain’s Fat Fight and War on Plastic with Hugh and Anita. 

Fearnley-Whittingstall will be taking to the stage alongside the Farm Retail Association Chair Emma Mosey at the Fair’s Power Breakfast event, in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland, to discuss the future of local food. As Patron of the Farm Retail Association, he will also be taking part in an exclusive event unveiling the organisation’s exciting new rebrand at the Fair.  

Fearnley-Whittingstall comments: “I’m delighted to be joining the Farm Retail Association at Speciality & Fine Food Fair this September to celebrate the start of a new chapter for the association and to connect with the amazing farm retail community.” 

“It’s fantastic to have such an icon of the food & drink industry joining us for our special 25th anniversary celebration,” adds Speciality & Fine Food Fair Event Manager Nicola Woods. “Championing quality, local food and reducing waste are hugely important issues for the artisan food sector and food & drink producers at the Fair have been trailblazers in these areas ever since our first edition back in 1999.” 

Additional speakers joining the Fair’s 2024 seminar programme include Lizzie Haywood, Innovations Manager at Waitrose & Partners, Rosie Collins, Marketing Director at Macknade, Tom Foxwell, General Manager at Hawksmoor, Priya Narain, Purpose and Culture Manager at KERB, Laura Roberts, Founder of Laura's Larder and many more.  

This year’s event will also spotlight an array of new and innovative products, with popular feature area the Start-Up Village providing a platform for emerging brands trading for less than two years. 

Among the exciting new producers participating in this year’s Fair is Dream of Sweden, introducing its delectable Dream of Truffles, elegantly packaged in beautiful tins.  

Di Santo & Family, a family-run business from Kent, will bring the authentic taste of Italian cuisine to the Fair, specialising in handcrafted pastries and biscuits such as Cannoli, Bigné, and Barchette. 

With a commitment to sustainability, Di Santo & Family uses fully recyclable packaging and sources ingredients locally whenever possible. Their products cater to coffee shops, hotels, restaurants, and catering services, with options for elegant gift boxes as well. 

All Dressed Up Dressings, founded by ex-private chef Tess, is on a mission to revolutionise the dressing category. With four innovative flavours—Everyday House, Tahini & Lime, Miso & Sesame, and Spicy Harissa—these dressings are designed for versatility in both hot and cold dishes. Packaged in recyclable squeezy bottles with eye-catching branding, they promise to make eating healthier more fun, convenient, and delicious. 

Good Oaks Foods curate a selection of high-quality products that celebrate the diversity and creativity of South African cuisine. From flavourful rubs to award-winning olive oils, their offerings not only enhance the taste of food but also bring a vibrant touch to the table with their colourful packaging. 

JD’s Hot Honey, born out of the lockdown in 2021, offers a new generation of sweet heat sauces perfect for drizzling over pizza, chicken, BBQ, grilled fish, roast vegetables, ice cream, cocktails, and more. Founder Jade’s innovative recipe has quickly gained popularity, and JD’s Hot Honey is now available through major retailers such as Wholefoods, Ocado, Selfridges, and beyond. 

Finally, Northern Pasta Co. is dedicated to creating the most delicious pasta while prioritising sustainability. Crafted by the British Pasta People in Cumbria, its pasta is made using solar power and 100% recyclable packaging. With a focus on regenerative farming, Northern Pasta Co. is committed to uniting people through their love of food and the environment. 

These emerging brands, along with many others, will be showcasing their innovative products at Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2024. The event promises to be an unmissable opportunity for food and drink professionals to discover the latest trends and connect with hospitality leaders, retailers, wholesalers and more.  

Speciality & Fine Food Fair takes place on Tuesday 10 - Wednesday 11 September at Olympia London. To find out more, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk.