Launched to celebrate female leadership, innovation and impact across the industry, the awards programme has already generated significant momentum in its debut year, attracting more than 1,800 nominations from across the food and drink supply chain.

The awards shine a spotlight on women working across every part of the sector from manufacturing and retail to hospitality, agriculture, product development, entrepreneurship and supply chain leadership, highlighting the breadth of talent shaping the future of the industry.

Take a look at the full category list here

Following a rigorous judging process led by a panel of senior industry leaders, the 2026 shortlist showcases individuals who are driving innovation, championing collaboration and delivering measurable impact within their organisations and communities.

The awards were created to address a longstanding gap in recognition for women across the food and drink sector and to provide a platform that celebrates their achievements while inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.

Atma Hyett, Brand Director for the Women in Food & Drink Awards, emphasised the wider significance of the programme:

“The Women in Food and Drink Awards are more than a celebration; they’re a statement of intent for the industry’s future. For too long, women have been the backbone of food and drink, but too rarely the ones recognised on stage. This initiative shines a light on the extraordinary women who are leading innovation, driving sustainability, and changing the face of leadership across every link of the supply chain.”

The awards have also attracted strong support from industry figures serving on the judging panel. Take a look at the judging panel here.

Mex Ibrahim, Co-Founder of Women in the Food Industry and a judge for the awards, highlighted the importance of visibility and recognition for women across the sector:

"As co-founder of Women in the Food Industry, I’ve seen first-hand how recognition can transform confidence and open doors. The Women in Food & Drink Awards are set to be more than an event - they are a platform for change. They will give women across our sector the visibility they deserve and highlight the power of representation in driving progress. I urge everyone to get involved, champion the women who inspire them, and help build a future where equality and opportunity are central to our industry’s success."

AJ Sharp, Managing Director and Talk Show Host at SHARP Relations & Food Rebels, and a member of the judging panel, reflected on the impact the awards will have across the industry:

"I’m so proud to be a judge for the very first Women in Food & Drink Awards. These awards are going to celebrate the talented, driven, and creative women who are building incredible businesses, shaping our sector, innovating, mentoring, creating and challenging status quo. When we share inspirational stories, we create a ripple effect that lifts the whole industry. It doesn't just recognise their impact, it inspires the next generation to see what’s possible.”

Industry leaders say the programme arrives at a critical moment for the sector, when diversity, representation and inclusive leadership are increasingly recognised as key drivers of business success and long-term industry growth.

The awards span more than 20 categories recognising excellence across leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability and community impact, reflecting the diverse roles women play across the food and drink ecosystem.

Winners will be revealed at the Women in Food & Drink Awards 2026 ceremony, bringing together manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, hospitality operators and entrepreneurs for an evening celebrating the achievements of women shaping the future of the industry.

Early Bird discounted ticket sales end on Friday 27 March, with organisers encouraging guests to book early as places are limited.

The full shortlist can be viewed here.

About the Women in Food & Drink Awards

The Women in Food & Drink Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of women across the UK and Ireland’s food and drink sector. Part of The Qs awards portfolio, along with the UK Quality Food & Drink Awards and the Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards, the programme recognises excellence at every level of the industry, from emerging talent to established leaders, while championing greater visibility, representation and opportunity across the food and drink supply chain.

Find out more about the awards and how you can be involved here.

Book awards event tickets here.

Congratulations to all our finalists!