Following three years in hibernation, the growing natural, organic and sustainable industry came out in force to attend the leading industry trade show, Natural & Organic Products Europe – which took place at ExCeL, London over the 3-4 April. The event attracted an attendance of 7,456 – who came to meet 800 exhibiting companies, covering the fastest growing sectors in retail, including organic, vegan, and free-from food, drink, supplements, personal care, and natural beauty.
Managing Director of Diversified Communications, Carsten Holm was delighted with the response. “We have had an exhilarating couple of days, and it was amazing to see the show so successful after such a long time. The feedback was incredible, with buyers representing the full retail spectrum, from major multiples, to online, convenience, premium stores and the important independent health store sector. The event is also gaining an increasing international following, with over 1,000 major buyers representing some of the most important retailers from 73 countries, many of whom list this as one of the most important international events in the diary.
He continues: “Incredibly, over 50% of stands already booked for next year during the show, so we can’t wait to start planning for an even better event next year. It’s so good to be back and to seeing our industry so positive, despite the many challenges facing the economy.”
“One of the best UK shows”
Buzzing from start to finish, and the show-floor was full of glowing testimonials from professionals who were excited to get back to face-to-face events again.
“For me, this is probably one of the best UK shows. I think Natural & Organic Products Europe always has an outstanding quality of varied exhibitors (and buyers) and there is always a nice atmosphere here!” says Patrick Meehan, owner of Natural Health Store.
“I come to Natural & Organic Products Europe for innovation, new brands, and catching up with former colleagues, existing partners and suppliers. I work in vitamins, but it’s not all about vitamins, it’s about seeing what the existing industry trends are. We’ve not done this in a couple of years, so it’s nice to see everyone face to face again,” says Sarah Looms, Senior Category Manager – Vitamins, Minerals, Herbal Supplements at Holland & Barrett.
She continues, “I think it’s good to see everything in the flesh, having face to face conversations is invaluable, especially because everything has been stuck on Teams for the past couple of years! Hearing people talk about the industry, even if you’re not directly involved in the discussion, is super helpful.”
“The show is in a great location and it’s great to get people together under one roof. It’s a good place to come and see larger and new and emerging brands,’ says Steve Wickham, Manufacturer at Clive’s Purely Plants.
Two theatres, inspiring talks
The show’s two theatre’s – The Natural TALKS Theatre and the Natural Beauty TALKS Theatre – were buzzing with inspiring talks across the two days. Speakers included Al Overton (Buying Director, Planet Organic), Author Dr Jenny Goodman, Patrick Holford (Founder Institute of Optimum Nutrition), Louisianna Waring (Senior Insight and Policy Officer, The Vegan Society), Nathalie Bouche (Head of Business Development Europe, TerraCycle), The Soil Association, Jayne Sterland (managing director Weleda), Millie Kendell OBE (CEO of the British Beauty Council), and many more.
Many topics were discussed including the climate emergency, recycling, organic farming, labelling laws, greenwashing in beauty, post-pandemic tends, veganism and many others.
“This show is amazing,” says Millie Kendell, CEO of British Beauty Council. “I think its important t talk to people and get to the root of how people cultivate their products. And because the Sustainability Coalition l is founded upon the coming together of our industry, its important for all exhibitors to talk to each other and share likeminded philosophies and open source their technology so we can really move forward. And as Jayne Sterland rightly says we’re in a code red situation and can’t afford to wait,” adds Kendell.
The Natural & Organic Awards Europe
The event also featured the Natural & Organic Awards Europe which brings together industry professionals to recognise and celebrate the standout brands and products of the year.
A Special Contribution Award was awarded to Gary Trickett, former Chair of NAHS (The National Association of Health Stores) for his ongoing work and dedication to the NAHS. And an Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to Alex Smith, founder of Alara Foods, for championing organic and sustainability for 40 years as well as developing a successful brand.
The full list of product finalists and winners can be found online at > https://www.naturalproducts.co.uk/show-press-releases/the-natural-organic-awards-europe-2022-the-results/.
The Natural & Organic Beauty Awards
Celebrating the outstanding achievements of the UK’s best natural beauty retailers and suppliers, Natural Beauty & Spa Show announced the winners of its annual Natural Beauty Awards on 4 April in the Natural Beauty TALSK Theatre.
The annual awards celebrate the vital role that retailers play in bringing natural and organic beauty brands to consumers, as well as the businesses, people and innovations that are driving the natural beauty industry forward.
The Outstanding Achievement Award was awarded to Jayne Sterland, managing director of Weleda and Beauty Coalition chair. Presented by Millie Kendall OBE, founder & CEO of the British Beauty Council, the award ‘recognises Jayn’s tireless efforts to champion ethical, sustainable business practices and drive change for a more planet-positive future.’
The full list of product and retailer winners can be found online at > https://www.naturalproducts.co.uk/show-press-releases/natural-organic-beauty-awards-europe-2022-results/
Natural & Organic Products Europe 2023
Natural & Organic Products Europe will return to ExCeL London on Sunday 16 and Monday 17 of April 2023. To keep up-to date with the event and register your interest for the 2023 event, please visit www.naturalproducts.co.uk.
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