With the 2017 instalment of the International Food & Drink Event just around the corner, the IFE organisers opened their doors for the exhibitor open day, a chance for companies exhibiting in the upcoming event to learn vital skills and techniques in order to enhance their business opportunities.
Held at ExCel London on Friday Jan 13th, this day was centred on ensuring exhibitors have the best possible experience in March, with various guest speakers throughout the day, sharing their experiences and knowledge of trade show events.
Guest speakers during the day included Adrian Beale from Buckely & Beale on how to attract buyers to the stand; Lauren Mayle from The Hub on how to maximise exhibitors’ PR; and Janice Edmunds, operations director of IFE with operational tips for exhibitors.
During the exhibitor day, FoodBev Media’s Darren Wood caught up with some of the attendees to talk about what they will be exhibiting, product development and the history of their respective companies.
Ken Lin from Xie Xie tea explained about the development of the company’s tea brand, describing why Xie Xie has decided to package its teabags inside a book.
Meanwhile, Pia Varma of Just A Splash described how necessity brought innovation, as this family owned business decided to showcase a range of cooking alcohols in squeeze pouches.
Fori Bars’ Jess Jones spoke about the brand’s savoury meat protein bar, which has an ambient shelf-life of 12 months. Jess also described how the product uses chia seeds to give the product a ‘bit more bite’.
The journey for 4Some Health, consisting of brother and sister team Dr Depen Patel and Dr Dipali Patel, started while dentist Depen was in Las Vegas for a conference. As he was struggling to find natural protein drinks that weren’t filled with artificial ingredients, he eventually made a late night, slurred phone call to complain to his less-than-impressed sister Dipali in London. As a medical aesthetician, Dipali had already seen first hand with her clients the damage that a poor diet and a lack of nutrients can do to the body, and Depen had seen a similar pattern with his patients. Here, they explain their story and the company’s recent growth.
The International Food & Drink Event takes place from 19–22 March 2017 at ExCel London and will also host the World Food Innovation Awards 2017 in association with IFE.
To enter this prestigious awards scheme, click here.
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