The Country Range Group (CRG) has announced the Telford International Centre as the venue for its annual trade exhibition conference and evening dinner. The theme of this year’s event, aptly titled ‘CRG Food Fest 2024’ is all things food festival related with a 60s ‘Summer of Love’ twist.
Taking place on the 20th of June, which is officially the first day of summer, the event is set to be the largest of the Group’s successful trade exhibition and networking events that have been running for over 25 years with over 600 supplier and member delegates attending.
A vital hub for innovation and ideas, the event sees millions of pounds of orders processed on the day and allows suppliers to present new and existing products showing how they can meet demands within the foodservice marketplace while discussing sales strategy, promotions, marketing and support with the CRG member wholesalers.
With over 350 delegates from the Country Range Group’s membership expected on the day, including senior directors, buying teams, development chefs, field sales representatives and telesales operatives, it’s the ultimate opportunity for the 110-plus suppliers attending to meet face-to-face and ensure they can take advantage of the opportunities.
Exhibition
Over 110 exhibitors will showcase their latest products and innovation with live demonstrations and tastings throughout, within their food festival themed stands. The Country Range Group’s own brands will also have their own kitchen where the Development Chef Paul Dickson will be presenting the latest products from the brands as well as the much-anticipated Autumn/Winter product range.
Conference
Chief Executive Martin Ward will provide a business update and Head of Marketing Emma Holden will share an update on the Group’s marketing activities programme and exciting plans for the future.
The conference will also include a keynote presentation from the Country Range Group’s charity partner, The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation. The presentation by Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse (both OBEs) will highlight how they are bringing about positive change for the three million people living in the UK with diagnosed food allergies. The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation is also the chosen charity to benefit from this years fundraising endeavours from the event.
The Summer of Love Gala Dinner & Evening Entertainment
In the true spirit of the ‘Summer of Love’, this year’s evening dinner will take everyone back to the swinging sixties. Flower power, flares and more are expected as guests’ network and get their groove on late into the night.
Martin Ward, Country Range Group Chief Executive, said “CRG Food Fest 2024 at the Telford International Centre promises to be an extraordinary celebration of innovation and collaboration in the foodservice industry. With a vibrant 60s ‘Summer of Love’ theme, this event will offer a fantastic day of networking, learning, and culinary exploration. It kicks off a busy and exciting summer for our members and a great opportunity, for suppliers to showcase the latest trends and new products to energize the industry.”
Exhibitors set to attend on the day include the likes of AG Barr, Delifrance, Kellanova, Nestle, Premier, Smilde, Swizzels, Three Oceans and Wafflemeister to name just a few.
Matthew Hitchen, Purchasing Director at Trevors Foodservice, said “The June Exhibition is a fantastic event, offering a great opportunity to see the entire Group come together. In the fast-paced world of foodservice its great to have the chance to engage in face-to-face meetings with suppliers showcasing their latest products, with the whole team as we often don’t get to be all together in one place. We’ve already packed our swinging sixties outfits and can’t wait to join the festivities!”
