On 8 July, Montgomery Group, organiser of IFE, hosted a high-level Embassy Networking and Market Insights event at London’s iconic luxury department store Fortnum & Mason, bringing together more than 50 embassies, high commissions and international trade organisations to explore the UK’s dynamic food and drink sector.

Delegates heard from Karen Green, retail expert and Founder of Buyerology, who delivered an in-depth presentation titled “Selling to the UK: Trends, Opportunities and Challenges.” Karen explored the shifting landscape of UK grocery retail, highlighting continued inflation, the growth of both premium and value-driven own-label products, and the increasing significance of older, financially secure consumers who are spending more on high-quality food and drink experiences.

Karen also detailed growth categories that present exciting opportunities for international producers, such as speciality cheeses (including burrata and PDO varieties), added-value rice and noodles, authentic world breads, and the growing demand for adult soft drinks and low- and no-alcohol alternatives. At the same time, she provided a clear-eyed view of the challenges facing overseas suppliers, from regulatory hurdles and labelling compliance to logistical complexities, tariffs, and fragmented routes to market.

The event welcomed attendees from a wide variety of organisations including the Embassies of Denmark, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands and Thailand, plus representatives from Business France UK, Business Finland UK, the Bangladesh High Commission, Japan External Trade Organisation, and more.  

James Murray, International Sales Director at Montgomery Group, commented: "There’s a huge appetite from around the world to access the UK food, drink & hospitality market, but it can be complex to navigate. This event was about giving embassies and trade offices the insight they need to support their producers and suppliers effectively, and to build relationships that help simplify that journey. The discussions were incredibly constructive and underline the value of continued global collaboration."

The event forms part of Montgomery Group’s broader commitment to supporting international producers through year-round engagement and market access initiatives. As organisers of leading F&B trade events such as IFE and Speciality & Fine Food Fair, Montgomery Group provides global brands with direct access to UK buyers, decision-makers and market insight, helping them build visibility and commercial success in one of the world’s most competitive grocery landscapes.

By connecting embassies, expert advisors, and market operators, the Embassy Networking and Market Insights event reinforced the importance of shared knowledge and strategic support in driving long-term export success.

To learn more, get in touch with International Sales Director James Murray: james.murray@montgomerygroup.com.