HOW to inspire future generations to work in the food and drink sector will come under the spotlight in North Yorkshire.

The Fine Food Show North on Sunday and Monday, October 17 and 18 will showcase more than 150 food and drink exhibitors at the Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate for trade buyers looking to source new products.

It is organised by the Guild of Fine Food which provides a voice for independent food retailers and producers, lobbying the government through the Independent Retail Consortium and providing access to expert industry advice.

A highlight will be an industry debate involving food and drink leaders about the future of the sector on Monday, October 18.

Future policy making and the importance of food and drink businesses’ contribution to the economy will also be on the agenda in the State of the Market panel discussion.

John Farrand, managing director of the Guild of Fine Food, will chair the debate involving five panellists, including Ananda Guha, from the food exports, promotion and partnerships division at DEFRA and Nigel Bogle from the EPOS Bureau.

John Gill, head of marketing and trade at Booths, Sangita Tryner, proprietor of Delilah Deli, and Maria Whitehead, director of Hawkshead Relish, will also join them.

Using the Guild’s sector survey findings, the panel will reflect on the industry’s positive impact on regional employment and domestic supply chains during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as its role in safeguarding specialist food and drink skills.

The panel will address opportunities for the sector to reclaim a central position on the high street, collaborate on sustainability initiatives and bring in new talent.

They will also consider the sector’s responsibility to help tackle obesity, ensure diversity and improve education.

Food buyers, retailers, chefs and patrons are invited to watch this live panel discussion by registering for Fine Food Show North.

Trade visitors can register at bit.ly/FFSN2021-Registration.