Industry urged to put British first as Food Fortnight turns 25

Love British Food is calling on the whole food supply chain to champion British farmers and make choosing British produce “the natural choice”, as the 25th anniversary of British Food Fortnight gets under way from 26 September to 11 October.

The call comes as farmers and food businesses continue to navigate significant cost pressures and a challenging trading environment, with organisers arguing that strong, dependable domestic supply chains are more important than ever.

See also: UK food production falls as farm losses mount, NFU warns

Love British Food founder Alexia Robinson said the fortnight had always been about turning support into action.

“Every sourcing decision, menu change and promotion creates an opportunity to build demand for British produce and demonstrate the value of strong relationships with British farmers, growers and suppliers,” she said.

“We are calling on all our neighbours in the supply chain to engage with the campaign, champion British produce, and help make choosing British the natural choice.”

The silver jubilee campaign has been strengthened by a new partnership between Love British Food and Red Tractor, which joins as lead assurance partner for 2026, aiming to build a stronger case for British sourcing across retail, foodservice and the public sector.

Red Tractor chief executive Paul McLaughlin said farmers, growers and processors worked hard every day to produce food to high standards “and they deserve to see that recognised throughout the supply chain”.

Partners including Compass Group, Morrisons, Brakes and Fresh Direct are supporting events throughout the fortnight, with a reception at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool during the opening weekend recognising British food’s contribution to jobs and economic growth.

Thousands of schools, hospitals and care homes are also taking part, alongside the Champion of Change community competition, which closes for nominations at midnight on 11 October.

The fortnight ends with national harvest services at St Mary’s Church, Nantwich, and Exeter Cathedral.

For further information, visit www.lovebritishfood.co.uk