Managing director of Grumpy Pigs, Stephen Andrew, talks new products, the influence of AI and future plans.
Tell us about what’s happening in the business this year?
We are very excited at Food Connextions about the coming 12 months, as not only will we be expanding and improving our Grumpy bacon products but also adding some new non-bacon products to the range.
Sandwich & especially food to go are booming sectors – is that something you’re seeing?
Yes. Food prices have risen as we all know but it does not seem to be affecting FTG. We are seeing growth and innovation across the board, which is very exciting for producers and consumers alike.
What key trends are you seeing around meat – and customer expectations?
They are looking for leaner, healthier, quality options. Manufacturers are stepping up and trying to be innovative while also being very conscious of salt and protein levels.
It’s a challenging time financially for businesses and consumers. How are dealing with cost pressures?
The UK imports around 40% to 45% of the total food it consumes, so the relaxation of import costs in 2026/27 – such as the Export Health Certificate (EHC) – will be very welcome. This will help lower food costs, which hopefully consumers will see the benefit of.
Technology wise, how are you improving your processes, and how is tech/AI impacting you?
We have now implemented AI into our sales and marketing, and are seeing great results. As the technology develops, I think we are looking at more dynamic pricing and menus – and hopefully voice AI ordering in FTG.
Who are your key relationships with in the sector?
We have a very strong partnership with our Polish factory who produce our Grumpy bacon. It has helped us build our customer base into foodservice over the past seven years. In 2025, also joined with a great UK factory, who will now produce for us pulled hock and cooked back bacon, all in our Grumpy brand.
Will we see you at any upcoming events?
We are exhibiting at IFE at London Excel (30 Mar- 1 Apr), where we will showcase some of our new lines: Halal Salt Beef and Pastrami, our UK Hock and Bacon, and introducing our new rasher counts on our Cooked Streaky Bacon. Its an exciting time to be in sandwich and FTG, and we look forward to pushing forward into new sectors in 2026.
For more information, check out crispybacon.co.uk.