The Association was established 36 years ago to represent the then-burgeoning commercial sandwich industry and to help establish standards for sandwich manufacturing and retailing. Since then, its remit has steadily expanded as the food-to-go market has grown and diversified. 

While sandwiches are still at the heart of the market they are increasingly competing in the same space with salads, sushi, pasta, bakery products, hot food, snacks and an ever-changing selection of meals designed to be eaten wherever the customer happens to be. 

The new identity was unveiled at a launch event in London in October, where members heard about the scale of the opportunity ahead for the sector. 

Nicola Knight from the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) told the event that the UK food-to-go market, currently valued by IGD at £27.9 billion, is forecast to continue growing through the foreseeable future, reaching £35 billion by 2031. 

Members also heard from Philip Shelley, Senior Operational Manager and National Lead for Food at NHS England, who discussed the importance of providing nutritious and safe meals for patients, many of whom are in a vulnerable state. Association manager Robert Potts also outlined some of the work the Association is doing to help members reach their sustainability targets. 

As part of the relaunch, the Food to Go Association has introduced a new logo and website. 

Jim Winship, Director of the Food to Go Association, said: “While sandwiches continue to represent the lion’s share of the food-to-go market, the sector is increasingly broadening to include an ever-wider portfolio of products. 

“The new name and logo better reflect the interests of our members and the food-on-the-move sector generally. The change recognises how far the market has evolved since the Association was established and positions us to represent and support the industry as it continues to develop.”