ABOUT THE WOMEN IN FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS
Event Overview
While there have been great strides towards more inclusive and diverse sectors in food and drink, there is still much progress to be made in addressing challenges like the gender pay gap, career progression, and increasing the representation of women in leadership roles. Women who have broken through these barriers serve as role models for future generations, yet we acknowledge that there are still too few in top positions.
These awards also contribute to the broader diversity conversation within the food and drink industry, recognising that the journey toward a truly equal industry is ongoing. With over 20 categories, the awards recognise achievement across leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community impact.
Event Mission
- Celebrate excellence and amplify the visibility of women making a difference at every stage of the food and drink supply chain.
- Spotlight women across the industry on an industry wide platform for recognition and promoting fair representation, and encouraging leadership progression.
- Unite the sector through a high-profile event that connects manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, and hospitality operators under one inclusive banner.
- Drive industry change by positioning gender diversity as a key factor in sustainable growth, innovation, and social responsibility.
Meet the Team
“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. It’s about creating visibility, celebrating progress, and inspiring the next generation to see food and drink as a sector where they belong and can thrive.”
"The excitement around this launch has been incredible. The Women in Food and Drink Awards give us the chance to champion stories that too often go untold; the innovators, producers, chefs, and business leaders driving real change. From the start, our goal has been to build a campaign that feels empowering and inclusive, where every sector of food and drink can see itself represented. The response so far shows there’s a genuine appetite for an awards programme that celebrates both achievement and authenticity."
“From the very first conversations with our partners and clients, it was clear how strongly this awards programme resonated. Everyone has a story about a woman who has shaped their business, mentored a colleague, or transformed their workplace culture. These awards give us a platform to share those stories and build new connections across manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and beyond. It’s not just about sponsorship or recognition, it’s about uniting the industry behind a shared commitment to progress and inclusion.”
“Delivering an event like this feels truly meaningful. Every detail; from the categories and judging to the night itself, has been designed to reflect the scale and diversity of our industry. The Women in Food and Drink Awards will bring together people who may never have shared a room before, but who are all shaping the future of food in their own way. It’s a privilege to create a space where those stories can be told, celebrated, and connected under one roof. This is more than an event; it’s a moment the industry has been waiting for.”
