Diversified has unveiled a dynamic talks programme for the 2026 iteration of its Natural & Organic Food Show, which takes place this year alongside the Artisan Food & Drink Show, Lunch! and the Restaurant, Pub & Bar Show as part of the inaugural London Food & Drink Festival. The event takes place at ExCel, London on 16-17 September.
Spanning everything from organic farming’s role in building sustainable food systems in a hostile climate, to hot business issues for indie retailers; and from making product and category claims with confidence, to why dietary fibre is emerging as a health and consumer mega-trend – it’s a programme that covers all bases. With industry thought leaders, top retail and food brands on the speaker line-up, this year’s keynotes are expected to draw enthusiastic audiences across both days.
The programme in full
16 SEPTEMBER
Organic Farming the Answer to Climate Change
Craig Sams, Carbon Gold (and co-founder Green & Black’s, former Soil Association chair
Everything you need to know about how UK Organic regulations are changing in (one easy session!)
With anticipated SPS changes and closer UK–EU alignment on the horizon, the rules of trade could be about to shift in your favour. An essential fireside chat on what the changes may mean, how they could reduce barriers to Europe, and why preparing now could give your business a competitive edge.
Lee Holdstock, Soil Association
Simon Wright, OF+ Consulting
Two steps back: How to Take Back Control of Your Time, Focus and Business
In an industry that moves fast and rewards constant motion, it’s easy to lose sight of what actually drives growth. This session offers a practical framework for stepping back — deliberately and strategically — to reclaim your time, sharpen your focus, and lead your business with clarity instead of reaction
Dave Christie, commercial strategist and founder, Flourish Foundry
The Challenges and Opportunities for Independent Retailers
The UK high street faces real pressure yet demand for independent retail is still strong. This keynote reveals how the boldest local businesses are turning challenge into opportunity.
Andrew Goodacre
British Independent Retail Association
Retail and Brands Trends USA
Drawing on years of global market visits, trade show travel, brand partnerships, and trend research, Mary will share the ideas, products, and consumer shifts shaping the future of food & beverage in 10 Trends to Watch in 2027 for Brands and Retailers.
Mary Allen
Founder and president, Natural Brands Works
17 SEPTEMBER
PANEL: Why Fairtrade Products are Good for Your Shelves?
Moderator: Adele Ward, UK marketing director for Clipper Teas
Panelists: Kerrin Thorogood, director of partnerships at the Fairtrade Foundation, Katrina Farmer, head of sustainability at Clipper Teas
PANEL: What Buyers Want
No fluff, no filler — just what’s actually landing with buyers right now. Straight from the people who hold the budget: the trends they’re backing, the pitches that work, and the mistakes that quietly rule you out.
Speakers
Panel hostDave Christie, Flourish Foundry; Genevive Fitch, supplier relationship manager, Ocado Retail;
Cillian Cook, JD; Ryan Bignall, Sysco; Izzie Peskett, Whole Foods Market
Can You Really Say That? Making Green Marketing Claims with Confidence
Green claims are under the spotlight — and food and drink businesses need messages that stand up. Join us for a practical Q&A on how to talk about green claims clearly, confidently and credibly. The discussion will draw on Soil Association Certification’s NEW guide, Marketing organic: What you can say, which attendees will be able to access after the session, helping build customer trust, support retailer conversations and make green claims that can be substantiated.
Speakers
Olha Stovpivska; Niamh Noone, head of marketing, Soil Association; Mark Machin, development manager, Soil Association Certification
Naturally Smart: Why Fibre is Becoming The Foundation for Functional Food
96% of UK adults don’t consume enough fibre, yet it may be the single biggest opportunity in the future of functional food. As consumers return to nutritional foundations, discover why fibre is becoming the hero ingredient that bridges food and supplements, supports whole-body health, and is reshaping the next generation of wellness innovation.
Speakers
Suria Darley, Holland and Barrett; Emily Reed, head of innovation pipeline
Holland and Barratt
Natural and Organic Innovation Awards
Presenter: Georgina Baker, Natural & Organic Food Show
- The Natural & Organic Food Show takes place at ExCel, London on 16-17 September 2026
