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Qualiko's Gavin Jessett on collaboration, consumer trends and the future of poultry
As Key Sponsor of IFE, Qualiko is using this year’s event to highlight how collaboration, innovation and culinary expertise are shaping the next generation of poultry products. Backed by its parent company MHP, the brand combines vertically integrated production with a strong focus on research and development, enabling it to work closely with retail and foodservice partners to bring new ideas to market quickly and responsibly.
From cleaner labels and bold global flavours to value-added formats designed for convenience, poultry continues to evolve in response to changing consumer expectations. At IFE, Qualiko will showcase how it is responding to these trends through new product development, creative menu concepts and a partnership-led approach to innovation.
We spoke to Gavin Jessett, Head of R&D Europe, to learn more about how Qualiko collaborates with customers, the consumer trends shaping poultry today, and what visitors can expect to discover on the stand.
How does Qualiko work with clients to develop new products and why are partners involved in the collaboration process?
At MHP, the owner of the Qualiko brand, product development is an essential part of every true partnership. We work closely with our customers from the earliest insight stage through to commercial launch, combining market intelligence, culinary expertise and robust R&D capability.
Our integrated model allows us to move quickly and responsibly — from concept creation and prototyping to scalable production — while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, animal welfare and sustainability.
That mindset translates into how we collaborate: with transparency, long-term thinking and a shared commitment to delivering value for consumers and customers alike.
As a chef and dedicated professional in the food industry, which recent consumer trends would you highlight?
Across Europe and the UK, we see consumers seeking quality, convenience and reassurance — particularly around provenance, nutrition and responsible sourcing. Chicken remains a protein of choice, but expectations are higher than ever.
Key trends include cleaner labels, bold but authentic flavours, and products that offer versatility across multiple meal occasions. We are also seeing strong growth in value-added poultry, including marinated, ready-to-cook and ready-to-heat solutions that perform well both at home and in foodservice.
At the same time, customers are asking for innovation that balances affordability with sustainability — an area where MHP’s vertically integrated supply chain provides a real advantage. This is what gives Qualiko products real credibility behind their claims.
What will you be showcasing to buyers at this year’s event?
This year, we are showcasing the latest innovations from our Qualiko brand, with a particular focus on our new karaage range, highlighting both its technical performance and strong consumer appeal. These products reflect our continued investment in flavour development, texture and consistency, while meeting the needs of both retail and foodservice customers.
Alongside product innovation, we believe in bringing concepts to life through experience. Visitors to our stand will be able to enjoy a curated menu designed to inspire — including nuggets sushi, a truffle roll with shawarma, and crispy wings paired with a Dor Blue cheese sauce. Together, these dishes demonstrate the versatility of chicken and how creativity and quality can elevate everyday poultry into premium, on-trend offerings.
What is coming up in 2026 for Qualiko (UK)?
2026 will be a year of focused innovation and strategic growth in the UK. We are investing further in our NPD and R&D capabilities to support customers with differentiated poultry solutions that meet evolving consumer demands.
This includes new product platforms, enhanced sustainability initiatives, and continued collaboration with retail and foodservice partners to deliver high-performing ranges.
Above all, we remain guided by the values of our Ukrainian founders — resilience, integrity and respect for food. Those principles continue to shape how we invest, innovate and build long-term partnerships in the UK market.
Find out more at qualikoglobal.com.
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