In April 2025, the Clegg Food Projects team had the pleasure of returning to Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, to showcase our construction expertise at the UK’s premier trade event for the food and drink processing, packaging, and logistics industries.
Held every two years at the NEC in Birmingham, the event provided an excellent platform to reconnect with industry peers and explore the latest trends shaping our sector.
Key takeaways from Foodex 2025
The resilience of the UK food and drink manufacturing sector was evident throughout the event. While on-going trade uncertainties have been a cloud above our heads, businesses in the sector continue to invest and expand their operations, underpinning the sector’s role in the UK economy.
Sustainability and energy security emerged as prominent themes, reflecting positively a collective commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Discussions also shed a light on a shift towards reduced ingredients and less processed foods, aligning with consumer demand for transparency and simplicity.
Emerging technologies and innovations
A notable observation was the industry’s progression towards automation. While there is still ground to cover compared to other manufacturing sectors, the adoption of automated lines and AI-powered logistics hubs is gaining momentum. These advancements are poised to enhance competitiveness and efficiency in food and drink production.
Opportunities for collaboration and growth
Foodex 2025 also presented opportunities for international collaboration. With trade dynamics evolving, there is potential for increased investment in manufacturing facilities across the UK and Europe. This aligns with our expertise in designing and building complex food and drink factories, and we look forward to engaging in new ventures that drive industry innovation.
Looking ahead
Attending Foodex reinforces our commitment to staying at the forefront of food and drink industry developments. The insights gained will inform our approach as we continue to support customers in designing and building world class food and drink facilities. We will be back at Foodex in 2027, where we look forward to the next wave of innovation and opportunities.
For more information or to discuss potential collaborations, please get in touch with our team.