FTG is on a real high right now. Is this reflected by exhibitor numbers?
It certainly is booming – not just because of our increasingly busy lifestyles but thanks to the incredible wave of innovation sweeping through the sector. Long gone are the days of soggy sandwiches and uninspired, unhealthy options. Today’s market is dynamic, health-conscious and bursting with creativity.

We’re seeing a surge of forward-thinking brands redefining what FTG can be, and that’s clearly reflected in our exhibitor list. It features an exciting mix of companies offering trendsetting products – from gourmet sandwiches and global street food to nutritious, delicious snacks designed for convenience without compromise. It’s an exciting time, and all signs point to continued growth as consumer demand and brand innovation continue to evolve. 

What key trends are you seeing?
Sandwiches in the FTG space are developing fast, with a real shift towards elevated classics. Think gourmet proteins, artisanal cheeses and unexpected, flavour-packed toppings. It’s not just what’s inside either – we’re also seeing more artisanal loaves, bagels and gluten-free choices. And locally sourced ingredients and indulgent spreads are making sandwiches feel more premium.

Global flavours are having a moment. Those bold, punchy combinations are shaking up the traditional formats and keeping things fresh. And for the growing number of flexitarians and vegan consumers, there’s been a noticeable rise in plant-based options. It’s great to see brands getting creative here, with healthier meat alternatives and protein-packed offerings. 

Of course, sustainability is still top of mind. Packaging is moving in the right direction, with fewer plastic containers and a growing shift towards biodegradable, compostable and eco-friendly materials. It’s clear that consumers are holding brands accountable, and the industry is stepping up.

It’s a challenging time for the sector – how are businesses adapting?
Keeping costs down without compromising on quality is vital. Many operators are rethinking menus to focus on core bestsellers that are both popular with customers and cost-effective to produce. Streamlining ingredients across multiple menu items is another smart move, as it reduces waste and simplifies supply chains. 

There’s also a lot of innovation. Businesses are investing in smarter kitchen tech, exploring automation where it makes sense and renegotiating supplier contracts to get better value. This is why a visit to lunch! is essential – to help operators and buyers find the best prices and most efficient systems for their businesses. 

Is lunch! 2025 a great deal different from recent years in terms of FTG interest?
Although the core mission remains consistent – connecting industry professionals with innovative suppliers – this year’s show is shaping up to be the best yet. Oatly is sponsoring our central café, with clever ideas on how oat milk can be versatile. We also have itsu Grocery showcasing products for the first time, Holie’s with their new healthy cereal, as well as returning exhibitors Simply Lunch, Pieminister, Speedibake, KP Snacks, Just Crisps, La Lorraine and Flexeserve. The Start-Up Zone will see companies showcasing protein bars, functional drinks, bread, confectionery and much more.

Then there’s the Innovation Challenge, which is always a crowd favourite. Buyers love watching brands pitch their latest ideas live on stage in front of an expert panel – it’s inspiring, competitive and a real highlight.  

The show’s standout Keynote programme is shaping up to be an incredible line-up – including Marta Pogroszewska, COO, Bread Holdings Limited, (the parent company of GAIL’s); Julian Metcalfe OBE, founder & group CEO of itsu and co-founder of Pret; Caroline Ottoy, MD of WatchHouse; Andy Naylor, CEO of Tortilla; Luke Shaughnessy, regional operations director of Costa Coffee; Shoaib Muhammad, director of operations of Wendy’s – Square Burger; and Jon Lake, MD of Chopstix. They will be talking about everything from sustainability and digital transformation to shifting consumer behaviours, covering the most pressing trends shaping the FTG industry.

For buyers seeking to stay ahead in this competitive market, attending lunch! 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for discovery, learning and networking. 

Register for a FREE trade ticket at lunchshow.co.uk and quote priority code VLU58.