The public agency Extenda has organised the participation of seven firms from the Andalusian province of Cádiz in the Speciality & Fine Food Fair, the most important gourmet food fair in the UK, which is held every year at the Olympia London centre. In its 21st edition, following the suspension of the event in 2020 due to the health crisis caused by COVID-19, the event took place on 6 and 7 September and brought together some 10,000 professionals from the sector.
Agri-food exports from Cádiz grew by 6.4% from January to June 2021 to 441 million euros. In terms of destination countries, the UK was the second-largest world market for the agri-food industry in Cadiz in the first half of 2021 (latest data available), with 39.2 million euros. In this period it has recovered the pre-pandemic sales level when its exports to the English countryside were worth 39.3 million (January-June 2019).
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many consumer habits in the British market, which is why the demand for certain products will be accentuated during 2021, according to Icex reports that include data provided by the specialised English magazine ‘Speciality Food Magazine’.
Despite the economic instability of many households, confectionery and chocolate products will be very popular. In addition, sustainability will influence the purchasing decisions of many consumers and food supplements will increase their sales due to people’s interest in strengthening their immune systems. Finally, the closure of the hotel and catering industry has pushed consumers to cook at home with new flavours and they are demanding innovative products.
Seven companies from Cádiz participated in the Speciality & Fine Food Fair with the support of Extenda: Bodegas Barbadillo, Horno La Gañanía, Huerta de Albalá, Cantizano Salsas y Conservas, Bodega de Forlong, Indi Essences and Bodegas Luis Pérez. The organisation of this action by Extenda will be co-financed with funds from the European Union.
