Talking food with Bidfood

From farmers to feminism: why Fairtrade matters

Bidfood — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, Julie Owst, Head of Sustainability & Change, is joined by Louise Davies, CEO of Scottish Fair Trade, and Kiera Wilkins, Ethical Business Manager, to unpack the true meaning behind the Fairtrade mark and why it matters more than ever. From global trade inequalities to climate pressures and social impact, this episode explores the realities facing producers and the role Fairtrade plays in creating a more balanced and sustainable food system. In this episode, we explore topics such as: Whether you’re reviewing your sourcing strategy, looking to make more ethical purchasing decisions, or...

Chapters

(00:00:03) - Talking Food With Bidfood
(00:00:40) - Scottish Fair Trade
(00:01:44) - The Fair Trade conversation
(00:03:02) - What is Fair Trade?
(00:04:58) - Will Fairtrade Make a Difference for You?
(00:06:48) - What does fair trade mean for the environment?
(00:10:33) - The Fair Trade Mark
(00:12:06) - Fairtrade: Explained
(00:16:02) - Fool's Food
(00:16:40) - Fooled by Scotland
(00:17:31) - Talking Food With Bidfood

Food and drink trends for 2026: What's next in food?

Bidfood — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:38:38 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, Rhia Harry, Research and Insights Manager, is joined by Catherine Hinchcliff, Head of Corporate Marketing and Nutritionist Manager, Heather Dolan, to unpack the latest food and drink trends shaping the food industry right now. From shifting consumer behaviours to emerging flavour influences and evolving menu expectations, this episode explores what’s driving change, and what it means for operators, chefs, buyers and food development teams. In this episode, we explore topics such as: Whether you’re refreshing a seasonal menu, planning ahead for the year, or looking for commercially viable innovation, this episode provides...

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Talking Food
(00:00:34) - Bidfood's 2026 Food and Drink Trends
(00:01:38) - Eating Out: The Future of Food and Drink
(00:05:08) - Food and Drink Trends for 2026
(00:07:07) - Tea Tonic
(00:08:57) - Whole Lot Of Goodness
(00:11:30) - Sweet Adventures: The dessert and sweet treat trend in 2021
(00:15:01) - South American, Korean and Malaysian cuisine
(00:18:15) - Venezuela vs Colombian
(00:19:42) - Food trends for 2026

Talking about the 2025 autumn budget and what it means for hospitality

Bidfood — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:18:03 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, Catherine Hinchcliff is joined by Jim Cathcart, Policy Director at UKHospitality, to break down the 2025 Autumn Budget and explore what the fallout really means for the hospitality and foodservice sectors. From mandatory food reporting proposals to new red tape reforms, this episode dives into the policies shaping the future of our industry, and what operators, chefs, buyers and food development teams need to know right now. Tune in to explore: And much more! Whether you’re an operator, buyer, chef, catering manager or part of a food development team, this episode offers...

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Talking Food: Autumn Budget
(00:01:49) - autumn budget
(00:03:37) - Brexit: The biggest impact on hospitality
(00:10:15) - Business Rates and Input Costs
(00:11:25) - Business Rates: Tourism and Leisure
(00:17:21) - VAT in the Budget
(00:19:35) - House of Hospitality: National Living Wage and National Insurance Contributions
(00:27:19) - Holiday Tax
(00:29:46) - The Future of Healthy Food Reporting in the UK
(00:32:31) - What's needed to alleviate pressure in the hospitality sector?
(00:35:32) - 3 practical tips for hospitality businesses after the budget
(00:37:31) - Talking Food

Talking about what's next for foodservice at the A Taste of Bidfood experts panel

Bidfood — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:53:43 +0000

In this episode of Talking food with Bidfood, industry experts from Elior UK, The Alchemist and Bidfood UK discuss what’s next for foodservice and what it takes to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market, straight from the A Taste of Bidfood panel! Tune in to explore: Whether you’re an operator, supplier, or industry professional, this episode offers fresh insights and practical takeaways to help you navigate the road ahead. Discover more about our 2025 Food and Drinks Trends here. Explore Unlock Your Menu, our industry support hub here. Watch the full episode here! Participants: Host: Rhia Harry- Research and...

Chapters

(00:00:04) - Talking Food With Bidfood
(00:01:47) - Foodservice Industry Conference: The Future of Food Service
(00:04:21) - The Customer's demands
(00:05:31) - Catering: The demands of the consumer
(00:09:02) - Food and Hospitality: Innovation and Opportunity
(00:11:15) - What's the impact of non-gluten in your sector?
(00:12:00) - Tim Worley
(00:13:23) - How is sustainability shaping consumer and business decisions?
(00:14:43) - The challenge of achieving net zero plastic in our products
(00:16:21) - The Collaboration across the Supply Chain
(00:17:30) - Vegetarian restaurant: Cost and sustainability
(00:18:40) - Technology and its role in food service
(00:21:27) - The Future of Hospitality: Enhance, Not Replace
(00:25:50) - Deciding whether to invest in technology?
(00:28:39) - Bidfood & Alchemist: Collaboration and Partnerships
(00:32:20) - Foodservice Future: Enjoy and Protect
(00:34:51) - Talking Food With Bidfood

Talking about feeding futures: Healthy eating in schools

Bidfood — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:34:49 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, Customer Marketing Executive Georgia Leakey is joined by Heather Dolan, Bidfood’s Nutrition Manager, and Ellie Olds, Company Nutritionist at award-winning independent schools caterer Holroyd Howe, to talk about healthy eating in schools. Together, they explore how caterers across the education sector are supporting children to eat well, from interpreting and applying the School Food Standards, to staying ahead of food trends and creating balanced, exciting menus that inspire healthier choices. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or insights into what’s shaping school menus across the UK, this is your go-to episode....

Chapters

(00:00:03) - Healthy Eating in Schools
(00:00:40) - School Milk
(00:01:52) - Meet the nutritionist at Holroyd Howe
(00:03:06) - How nutrition affects the feed supply chain
(00:04:07) - Holland Howe School Meals: Healthy Eating
(00:09:32) - Independent Schools and the School Food Standards
(00:11:06) - Bidfood's school food standards
(00:12:27) - EYFS guidelines for early year settings
(00:14:30) - Bigfood: Innovation and the Food Trends
(00:15:31) - Food and Drink: The 2026 Trends
(00:16:22) - School health and well being initiatives
(00:18:35) - Food and Drink: Cost Effective Ingredients
(00:21:57) - Talking Food: Nutrition for Children

Talking all things nutrition – empowering teams and nourishing consumers

Bidfood — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:15:29 +0000

Join Heather Dolan, Nutrition Manager at Bidfood and Lizzie Foskett, Head of Nutrition and ESG at BaxterStorey as they delve into all things nutrition. They explore BaxterStorey’s sustainable nutrition mission and how they empower their teams through accredited nutrition training, and tackle big questions like: what does “healthy” really mean? And which sources of information can you trust? Tune in for an insightful conversation, practical tips and expert advice to help you support your customer’s health and wellbeing, by creating nourishing, balanced menus and recipes. Participants Host: Heather Dolan, Nutrition Manager Guest: Lizzie Foskett, Head of Nutrition and ESG at...

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Talking Food With Bidfood
(00:01:42) - Lizzie Baxter Story's current focus and projects
(00:03:00) - Beans is How It's Done
(00:03:49) - Bak's Story's 'More Beans' campaign
(00:06:00) - What Does the Word 'Healthy' Mean to You?
(00:07:59) - The role of nutritionists in your business
(00:09:10) - Is a Registered Nutritionist Necessary for Your Business?
(00:10:18) - What is a Nutrition and Health Claim?
(00:12:18) - Looking ahead: The future of nutrition
(00:12:46) - Talking Food

Talking about Caterers Campus: Investing in your team's development outside the kitchen

Bidfood — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:35:20 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, Claudia Colborn, New Business Marketing Manager and Senior Customer Marketing Manager, Emily Dart dive into Caterers Campus, Bidfood’s dedicated free e-learning platform for empowering teams with learning, development, and growth. Also, watch out, as they make a call live on air to speak to one of our very own experts to help set the scene… Who will they call? Discover how this innovative platform is helping hospitality professionals sharpen their skills, stay ahead of trends, and futureproof their careers. Whether you’re a chef, a front-of-house manager, or a business owner looking to...

Talking about why food is just as important as the room: How to create innovative menus and compete with high-street venues

Bidfood — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:58:52 +0000

In this exciting episode, Customer Marketing Manager, Imogen Hassard is joined by Leigh Stark, Group Development Chef at Clermont Hotels on “Why food is just as important as the room” revealing how to create innovative menus to compete with high-street venues– all served up in a fresh visual format overlooking Tower Bridge from Clermont’s VU from The Tower bar and kitchen. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or a behind the scenes look at what’s shaping menus across the UK, this is your go to episode. Discover all our support for hotels here. Interested in our Food and Drinks Trends...

Talking about mobilisation: What you really need to know

Bidfood — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:41:06 +0000

In this episode of Bidfood’s ‘Talking Food with Bidfood’, we dive into the world of Mobilisation with New Business Marketing Manager, Claudia Colborn and Customer Integration Manager Hayley Dorney. Tune in to learn all about the mobilisation journey here at Bidfood, adapting to customers’ needs and busting some common mobilisation myths. Whether you are a looking to find out more about the mobilisation journey or what we do here at Bidfood, click here to learn more. Participants Host: Claudia Colborn, New Business Marketing Manager for Bidfood Guest: Hayley Dorney, Customer Integration Manager for Bidfood Timestamps: 00:00- Intro 00:42- What is...

Talking about understanding products with sustainable elements, looking beyond the label

Bidfood — Thu, 15 May 2025 14:07:59 +0000

In this episode of Talking Food with Bidfood, we dive into the world of sustainable products with Shelley Franklin-Morris, our Senior Sustainability Manager. From the significance of well-known certifications to the rise of eco-conscious catering supplies, we explore what sustainability and responsible sourcing really mean in foodservice today. Discover how these choices impact the planet, support ethical practices, and shape the future of the industry—plus, get practical advice for making more sustainable purchasing decisions. Participants Host: Amelia Russell, Senior Marketing Executive at Bidfresh Guest: Shelley Franklin-Morris, Senior Sustainability Manager Timestamps 00:00- Intro 03:24- What is the significance of recognisable certifications...

Talking food and drink trends for 2025

Bidfood — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:18:30 +0000

In this episode, host Rhia Harry sits down with Culinary Development Chef Adam Denny to explore the top food and drink trends shaping 2025. From the rise of regional and international cuisines to the growing demand for innovative drinks and small plates, we cover the trends set to make a big impact across various sectors. Whether you’re in hospitality, leisure, or foodservice, this episode will leave you inspired with fresh ideas to enhance your offerings. Find out more about our food and drink trends for 2025 here. Participants: Host: Rhia Harry- Senior Insights and Research Executive for Bidfood Guest: Adam...

Talking about the new BDA Care Home Digest

Bidfood — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:51:16 +0000

In this episode, Heather Dolan, Nutrition Manager at Bidfood, explores the British Dietetic Association (BDA) Care Home Digest—a highly anticipated resource created to help care homes meet the nutritional needs of their residents and enhance the mealtime experience. She is joined by two expert guests who played key roles in developing the Care Home Digest as part of the working group. What you’ll learn in this episode: Tune in to discover more about this valuable care home resource. The Interactive Care Home Participants: Host: Heather Dolan, Nutrition Manager at Bidfood Guests: Timestamps 00:00- Intro 04:30- Where did the concept for...

Talking about the impact of the newly elected government on the NHS

Bidfood — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:24:38 +0000

In this episode, host Olivia Jackson dives into how the new UK government’s policies will shape the future of the National Health Service (NHS). Join us for an in-depth discussion with three distinguished guests who bring valuable perspectives on NHS challenges and potential opportunities under the new administration. What you will learn in this episode: Tune in to explore what lies ahead for one of the UK’s most vital institutions. Participants: Host: Olivia Jackson, Customer Marketing Manager, Bidfood UK Guests: Timestamps 00:00- Intro 2:51-Have you seen any changes in policy that could have an impact on the NHS? 6:36- Do you...

Talking the future of foodservice at Taste of Bidfood: Silverstone, with Simon Rimmer

Bidfood — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:12:15 +0000

Join host Ashley Hollidge as we dive into the future of food service live from the Taste of Bidfood event, held at the legendary Silverstone Circuit. Join us as we uncover the latest industry insights, emerging trends, and innovations shaping the food service industry. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Tune in to gain a competitive edge and stay ahead in the fast-evolving foodservice landscape. Our 2025 food and drinks trends Our Open Doors programme More information on our care home sector page Participants: Host: Ashley Hollidge, Digital Marketing executive for Bidfood UK Guests: Time stamps: 00:00- Intro 00:49- Interview...

Trending in Fresh: What Consumers are Craving and Our Predictions for the Future

Bidfood — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:11:13 +0000

It’s a fresh food takeover! In this episode, we delve into the latest trends in fresh, touching on the trifecta – fish, meat, and produce – with insights from Natalie Hudd, Director of Sales at Direct Seafoods, and Jodie Gamson, Marketing Manager at Bidfresh. Discover what’s popular in the fresh food industry and what consumers are loving in 2024 and beyond… Find out more about what’s trending in the world of fresh in ‘The Juice’, Bidfresh’s 2024 Fresh trends report here. Explore all of our latest food and drinks trends for 2025 here. Participants: Host: Amelia Russell, Marketing executive at...

Talking about how the 2024 General Election will impact school meals

Bidfood — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 13:41:52 +0000

Join host Cally Ip and co-host Gavin Squires to discuss how the 2024 General Election will impact school meals. We are joined by industry greats Dr Andy Kemp MBE and Patricia Fellows MBE to breakdown the current scene of school catering and discuss the impact of politics on school meal funding. We talk about the current struggles of school catering, discuss the idea of expanding Universal Infant Free School Meals, and share what the next elected government can do ensure every child is fed a nutritious hot meal. This is a key topic which will impact the next generation and...

Talking Regenerative Agriculture in 2024 with Nestle

Bidfood — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:36:37 +0000

Join host Ashley Hollidge and co-host Valeria Potsinok to discuss the exciting and developing world of regenerative agriculture in 2024. We are joined by special guests Kate Edley, Brand and Category Lead Savoury Food, Nestlé Professional and Katrina Harrison Brand and Activation Lead, Nestlé Professional, who breakdown the complex world of regenerative farming and dive deep into it’s importance to the future of foodservice. Whether you’re new to the topic of Regenerative Farming, are an expert or just curious about this topic we hope you will find this an interesting discussion. Click here to read Bidfood’s 2023 sustainability report: Bidfood...

Talking top trends of 2024 at Taste of Bidfood: Access All Areas

Bidfood — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 09:59:11 +0000

Join host Ashley Hollidge discussing the top food and drinks trends for 2024, with attendees at our Taste of Bidfood: Access All Areas event. This event was all about customers, and suppliers joining together to celebrate food and innovation, strengthen their knowledge in workshops, and getting the full access all areas experience at our depot tours. Our special guests for the episode are from Elior, Heinz, The Alchemist, the Bidfood digital team and our CEO for Bidcorp UK, Andrew Selley. They give their hot takes and predictions for food and drink in 2024, their highlights of the event and share...

Talking healthy and sustainable eating in universities

Bidfood — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:05:16 +0000

Join our host Cally Ip with guest speaker Rob Smith, Senior Head Chef at University of Bristol to hear how he is implementing healthier and more sustainable menus in his university. We’re also joined by our Head of Sustainability, Julie Owst, and our Nutrition Manager, Heather Dolan, who join us who dive into the importance of changing the future of university menus, today, and how easy it can be to do. For this episode, we discuss healthy and sustainable menu principles such as eating less red meats, sugar alternatives, and more, as well as how universities can easily bring these...

Talking about breaking down barriers around healthy eating in education

Bidfood — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:43:12 +0000

Join guest host Emily Butler, with Amanda Whatley and Heather Dolan to discuss all things vegetable intake and nutritious school meals. We talk about ways to break down barriers of healthy eating in schools, why balanced meals are so important to children’s development and learning, as well as how school caterers can continue to make a real difference. Our guest for this episode is Amanda Whatley, Business Development Manager at HC3S, who joins us to discuss simple, yet impactful ways schools can encourage students to care about healthy eating and what methods she finds helps students increase their intake of...

Talking about the LACA Main Event 2023

Bidfood — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:02:57 +0000

Join guest host Emily Butler, with Gavin Squires and Wayne Wright to discuss all things innovation in schools, a LACA the Main Event round-up, and hear about the inspiration behind our stand. With it being such a pressing issue for the education sector, we also took the time to discuss what the industry and government need to action for supporting and increasing Universal Infant Free School Meals. We feel strongly that not enough is being done currently. We also discuss our favourite moments from LACA the Main Event, such as awarding Brad Pearce, LACA chair, our fundraising total for his...

Talking sustainable and carbon friendly menus

Bidfood — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:42:53 +0000

Join Joe Angliss and Julie Owst, Head of Sustainability for Bidfood, and their special guests Paul Williams, Global Head of Environmental and Social Sustainability and Simon Stokes, Senior Development Chef for Princes, as they shed light on the crucial role of sustainable practices and the growing trend for carbon-friendly menus. We discuss best practices to help brands to reach their targets and how foodservice businesses can make changes to create a greener, more sustainable food industry. This is a must listen for anyone dedicated to understanding how to create more carbon-friendly and sustainable menus. Bidfood’s vision is to be the...

Talking bringing to life the King's Coronation in Care

Bidfood — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 13:28:28 +0000

The coronation brings the perfect opportunity for care homes across the world to bring residents together to celebrate and welcome a brand new era. To help support care homes, we wanted to explore the event further and offer our quick top tips on how to bring it alive… We are joined by our award-winning culinary development Chef Wayne Wright to discuss to upcoming coronation and what this means for care homes. We touch on the importance of celebrations in homes and the significance of this on resident engagement and wellbeing. This episode also delves into the importance of catering for...

Talking about the Retro Love food and drink trend for 2023

Bidfood — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:04:48 +0000

Staying ahead of the curve with the latest consumer trends is more important than ever, as eating and drinking out...

Talking about the top alcoholic drinks trends for 2023

Bidfood — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 10:57:46 +0000

We’re back with another 2023 Food and Drink Trends episode! This time, we speak to Head of Unity and expert of all things alcohol… Matt Towe. During the episode we explore our alcoholic drinks trend for 2023, “In the Spirit”. With over 20 years of experience working in the alcohol industry, Matt truly is a fountain of knowledge, so it was fascinating to get his views on the latest alcoholic drinks trends, and what will make them such a hit with consumers this year. Importantly for operators, we also discuss ways in which these trending drinks can be offered in...

Talking about making the journey to net-zero carbon emissions - Part 2

Bidfood — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 09:04:14 +0000

Following on from our previous episode, we talk to Anne Simonnet, Head of Sustainability & Compliance at Foodbuy. Anne has...

Talking about making the journey to net-zero carbon emissions - Part 1

Bidfood — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:31:57 +0000

The scale of the environmental threat facing us all as individuals and businesses can sometimes seem daunting, and has certainly...

Talking food and drink trends for 2023

Bidfood — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:47:28 +0000

Staying ahead of the curve with key consumer trends has never been as important as it is in today’s challenging...

Talking ways to make more margin on your drinks

Bidfood — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 15:08:26 +0000

We’ve all been grappling with inflation and the cost of living crisis. As a result, the hospitality sector has come...

Talking implications of the new Plastic Packaging Tax on foodservice

Bidfood — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 10:02:17 +0000

The Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) came into effect on the 1st of April 2022 to provide a clear economic incentive...

Talking ways to make more margin for your meat

Bidfood — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:35:53 +0000

We understand how the cost of living and food inflation has affected the industry over the past six months. While...

Talking about helping the hospitality sector become net-zero

Bidfood — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:24:18 +0000

Becoming more sustainable and reducing our emissions is such a pressing issue for all business, particularly those involved in the...

Talking about the new calorie labelling regulations

Bidfood — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 17:49:48 +0000

When implemented on 6th April 2022, the new calorie labelling legislation will mean that it will become mandatory in England to share...

Talking school catering in 2022

Bidfood — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 09:09:40 +0000

For this episode, we’re breaking down the greatest challenges that school caterers are facing to feed children quality and nutritious...

Talking about the ‘health is wealth’ trend for 2022

Bidfood — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:27:02 +0000

As the health trend looks set to continue to rise in 2022, we surveyed consumers and scoured the market to...

Talking tips for creating exciting Veganuary menus with plant-based alternatives

Bidfood — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 09:29:52 +0000

Interested in discovering what plant-based alternatives to include on your menu? Learn more about what you can do for Veganuary and what our new V Kitchen range has to offer by listening to this episode! To discuss this topic, we are joined by Zoe West, Senior Corporate Engagement Specialist at Veganuary and Martin Eshelby, Food Innovation Manager for Bidfood. We discuss ingredients, plant-based alternatives, flavours and textures that can help you to create an exciting and creative vegan offer for your customers this year.

Learn more about Veganuary and the support they can provide you: https://veganuary.com/try-vegan/?d=bidfood

Learn more about our V Kitchen range here: https://www.bidfood.co.uk/v-kitchen/

Find all our other recipe advice here: https://www.bidfood.co.uk/v-kitchen-recipes/

Talking tips for generating more revenue in food delivery

Bidfood — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:56:02 +0000

The food delivery market has seen huge growth since the start of the pandemic, accelerating its already substantial development before Covid-19 hit our shores. New delivery concepts like dark kitchens and host kitchens have arisen and are now cementing their place in the market, and in this episode we look at these concepts, the sustained boom of the market and talk tips on how you can take advantage of it.

We’re joined on the podcast by Jamie Moore, European Sales Director at KBOX, Ian Thomas, Landlord of The Old Reindeer Inn in Banbury and Cally Ip, Customer Marketing Executive in our team.

Tune in to gain an insight into the 2021 food delivery market!

Find out more about KBOX here

Talking 5 key food and drink trends for 2022

Bidfood — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 09:39:58 +0000

Are you wanting to learn about new flavours shaping consumer choices in 2022? Peter Martin, founder of Peach 20/20, and Catherine Hinchcliff, Head of Corporate Brand and Insights at Bidfood, join the podcast to discuss the key themes trending in food and drink for 2022. We go in-depth on the ingredients, flavours and cuisines less travelled that can help you stay ahead of the curve with your menus.

Learn more about our 5 key trends in food and drink for 2022 here:

www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/

Flavours less travelled: www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/flavours-less-travelled/

Health is wealth: www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/health-is-wealth/

The Greta effect: www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/the-greta-effect/

The wow factor: www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/the-wow-factor/

Celebrating British: www.bidfood.co.uk/food-and-drink-trends-2022/celebrating-british/

Talking what’s on the menu for Christmas 2021

Bidfood — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 08:41:35 +0000

Merry Christmas from everyone at Bidfood!

In this episode, we’re discussing all things you need to consider as we approach the busy Christmas and New Year period. We’ve conducted some research on Christmas for consumers to understand exactly how they plan to spend it this year and what they want on the menu. We expand on this and look to find solutions for you to take advantage of.

Holly Rogers, Senior Insights and Research Executive and Laura Mason, Senior Campaigns & Brand Manager join the podcast to provide their expert opinion for this one.

Learn more about how we can support you this Christmas to help you make it a truly special time for your customers: www.bidfood.co.uk/christmas/

Talking supply issues across the food supply chain

Bidfood — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:00:08 +0000

It’s no secret that our industry has been met with a series of challenges over the past 18 months, impacting things right across the supply chain. The effects of the pandemic, coupled with the impact of Brexit, has led to HGV driver shortages, CO2 and manufacturing shortages, a nation-wide fuel crisis and now a back-log of vehicles needing fixing due to a shortage of parts… and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Taking a deep dive into the cause of these problems and discussing what needs to be done as we approach the busy Christmas and New Year period, Andrew Selley, CEO of Bidcorp UK and James Bielby, Chief Executive for FWD join the podcast.

This is a must listen for anyone impacted by what our industry is currently navigating!

Talking catering for dementia

Bidfood — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:05:44 +0000

We’re pleased to launch this special episode in support of World Alzheimer’s Month. Bidfood customer Rob Byrom from Hallmark Care...

Talking Natasha’s Law

Bidfood — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 09:07:21 +0000

The past 18 months have brought about a lot of change for the industry and fast approaching is one of the most notable and pressing changes – Natasha’s Law.

Natasha’s Law, more formally known as prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) requirements, comes into effect on Friday, 1^st October 2021. These changes will require food businesses to label PPDS food with a full list of ingredients containing emphasised allergens within, bringing the provision of allergen information in line with labelling for prepacked food.

In this episode, we delve deeper into getting ready for Natasha’s Law, exploring the hurdles and the opportunities as a result of the legislation changes. Our expert guests also provide their useful advice to support food service businesses in feeling prepared and confident going forwards.

Joining Joe Angliss as co-host for this episode is Natalie Bance, Senior PR and External Communications Manager, as well as guests Jim Cathcart, Policy Director at UKHospitality, and Samantha Elliott, Nutrition & Allergen Manager at Bidfood.

2021 food and drink trends: 'Careful Consumption' updated

Bidfood — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 11:21:33 +0000

There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

2021 Food and Drink Trends: Wellness My Way updated

Bidfood — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 09:43:36 +0000

This year has been unlike any other and consumers’ priorities and choices are really shifting. Because of this, we decided to launch a 2021 Trends Update, and take a deeper look into how our key 2021 food and drink trends have evolved throughout the year.

In this second episode of our Trends Update series, we’ll take a deep dive into our Wellness My Way trend. We uncover some of the key sub-trends we’re seeing grow and emerge in this area, and we discuss practical and simple ways in which operators can incorporate the wellness trend into their offering. Plus, our Food Development Chef Wayne discusses how some of these can be applied in the education and care sectors.

For the episode, Holly Rogers, Senior Research and Insights Executive, joins as a co-host with regular host Joe Angliss. They are joined by Samantha Elliott, who is our Nutritionist at Bidfood, and then Wayne Wright from our Food Development team who discusses his expert opinions on how this trend can be applied specifically to the education and care sectors.

To learn more about our trends, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/2021-food-trends/

2021 food and drink trends: An update on global cuisines

Bidfood — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 09:16:06 +0000

Food and drink trends have been evolving at a really rapid pace since the pandemic began, fuelled by changes in consumer behaviour and attitudes. Our Insights team have put together an update on the most important changes, highlighting the implications for operators. In the first podcast episode, we’ll be focussing on Global Cuisines, understanding which stand out the most right now, and why, as well as taking a look at how to embrace these in your menu planning and offer, so that you can hit the mark with your customers as you open and rebuild trade.

Joining Joe Angliss to co-host this podcast is Catherine Hinchcliff, Head of Corporate Marketing and Insight at Bidfood, along with Michal Seal, Marketing & Corporate Communications Director at Elior UK, Karl Chessell, Director of Hospitality Operators and Food at CGA, and Martin Eshelby who is our Food Innovation Manager at Bidfood.

To see more on our trends, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/2021-food-trends/

Talking about making the most of the opportunities for staycations

Bidfood — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 09:20:47 +0000

For this episode we’re talking through research results from a recent survey we produced in collaboration with market research agency, Savanta. The survey focuses on consumer expectations for staycations and the opportunities you can capitalise on, for what is set to be a boom in the UK tourism market. As well as that, we’ll also talk through what the market has in store for us through this summer and onwards. To help digest this, regular host Joe Angliss is joined by David King who is our Senior Customer Marketing Manager and Jonny Sim, who is a Campaign & Activation Manager...

Talking hydration for Nutrition & Hydration Week

Bidfood — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 08:44:52 +0000

In this episode, we’re supporting Nutrition & Hydration week, with top tips and support for the care sector to help residents stay hydrated. We discuss the symptoms of dehydration to look out for, food and drink ideas to increase fluids across menus, and the best way to support residents.

Joining us on the episode are two of our fantastic food development team, Pam Maclean, Food Development Manager and Wayne Wright, Food Development Chef.

To find out more about our work within the care sector: www.bidfood.co.uk/care-homes/

To become a Bidfood customer: www.bidfood.co.uk/become-a-customer/

Talking tips for getting ready to relaunch

Bidfood — Mon, 10 May 2021 14:41:49 +0000

As we slowly get to the next milestones of fully reopening, now is all about having everything in place to make sure you have the best food and drink offer available for welcoming back customers. In this episode we go through key consumer insight, ways of growing spend, menu hints and tips, plus cuisines to watch out for over the next few months. Joining Joe Angliss to break this all down is, Gemma Benford, our Head of Customer Marketing, and David King, our Senior Customer Marketing Manager.

For more support on getting ready to relaunch, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/covid-19-support/relaunch-ready/

To find our blog which summarises the key points discussed in the episode, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/blog/get-relaunch-ready/

Talking about the changing face of contract catering

Bidfood — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 07:59:44 +0000

For this episode, we’re talking to contract caterers about how they’re having to adapt in the short term and long term to rebuild and grow in a much changed landscape. Our guests Paul Brown, Business Development Controller for Bidfood, Alex Briggs, Head of Catering for Mitie, and Samantha Davis, Head of Operational Procurement for CH&Co, provide us with their take so far and give us a taste of what the future looks like too.

This was a panel discussion which took place during our Big Food and Drink Show on 19th-21st April. To see the other panels and presentations from the show, go to www.bidfood.co.uk/events

Talking 6 predictions for the summer

Bidfood — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 10:30:09 +0000

With the government now setting up a roadmap for opening after this lockdown, attention turns to how foodservice can adapt and get ready for what will hopefully be a boom in the summer for the industry. Based on the latest insights into the market and the new upcoming rules, we’ve collated our 6 predictions for what will happen this summer. To discuss this subject, we are joined by Justine Hopkinson from Bidfood New Zealand and Shonay Shaw from Bidfood Australia. Both have been through post-lockdown summers and have some fantastic insight to share on how consumer behaviour has developed due to the pandemic. For this episode, Joe Angliss is joined by our Head of Customer Marketing, Gemma Benford, as co-host.

For more support relating to Covid-19, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/covid-19-support/

To find the blog which summarises the key points discussed in the episode, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/blog/

Talking tips for generating revenue through lockdown

Bidfood — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 10:57:04 +0000

For this episode we are continuing with support for your business in this 3^rd lockdown by talking about ideas for generating revenue. To discuss this, we are joined by Elio Elia, who is a Supply Chain & Purchasing Manager for Chopstix Group. In the interview, we go through what they have done to capitalise on revenue opportunities over the last few months, including how they’ve expanded into the new delivery world of virtual brands and dark kitchens.

Talking social media: how to keep customers engaged during lockdown

Bidfood — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 09:03:22 +0000

In this episode Joe Angliss is joined by Emily Lowery, our Social Media Manager, to discuss how powerful social media is as a marketing tool in foodservice. In a time like this as we endure another lockdown, it is a really important time to use social media to drum up attention and keep customers engaged with your business. During the episode, Joe and Emily discuss 5 top tips for a successful social media strategy: be active, share your story, leverage local, show your face, and encourage engagement.

For more support with Covid-19, go to: www.bidfood.co.uk/covid-19-support/

Food and drink trends for 2021: Wellness my way

Bidfood — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 09:03:56 +0000

As well as looking to improve the health of the world we live in, we are also trying improve our own health by considering different diets that offer optimal wellbeing and virus protection. This mind-set has developed and grown rapidly since the outbreak of Covid-19 as consumers saw this as an opportunity to get fit and healthy.

To digest how this will impact foodservice, Joe Angliss is joined by Lucy Pedrick, Bidfood’s Head of Insights, and also Sophie Mancuso, Senior Editor from thefoodpeople – a global food trends and ideas agency.