Annual Conference

Food & Drink Wholesale Live returns 11 June 2026 — the sector’s must-attend annual conference. Join wholesalers, suppliers and service partners for a high-impact day of insight, innovation and collaboration. Expect main-stage keynotes, expert analysis and lively discussions on the trends shaping wholesale, plus breakout workshops to explore the issues and opportunities that matter most to your business. On the conference floor, discover supplier stands, live demonstrations and networking opportunities designed to spark conversations, share knowledge and build new partnerships. FWD Live! is your chance to connect, learn and shape the future of the UK food and drink wholesale sector.

Booking opens soon — don’t miss your chance to secure a place at wholesale’s essential annual event.

Annual Awards Evening

Get ready — the Food & Drink Wholesale UK Gold Medal Awards return in 2026! This prestigious event celebrates excellence across wholesalers, suppliers and service providers, shining a spotlight on the individuals and teams who make the sector thrive. From powerhouse businesses to everyday heroes—telesales stars, managers, drivers and more—the awards recognise achievement, innovation and dedication. Previous evenings have combined glamour, storytelling and memorable wins, creating an unmissable celebration for the wholesale community.

Start thinking about your nominees now, whether it’s a standout supplier, visionary wholesaler or a team member who goes above and beyond. Stay tuned for details on eligibility and how to join us for a night of recognition, connection and celebration.

How to Win in Wholesale

Our Introduction to Wholesale and Foodservice sessions return in 2026! This free, half-day programme provides a practical introduction to the fast-growing foodservice market, ideal for those new to wholesale or looking to expand. Gain insight from leading wholesalers, suppliers and data specialists on market size, customer trends, partnerships and best practice. Delegates also enjoy a guided depot tour and complimentary lunch, building the knowledge and confidence to succeed in the channel.

The session is free for FWD members, with attendance limited to two delegates per organisation. Booking opens soon—don’t miss your chance to secure a place at this essential starter programme.

Category Insight

Our Wholesaler Evenings return in 2026! These invite-only dinners bring senior wholesalers and category buyers together to connect, share insight and explore the trends shaping key sectors. Each evening focuses on a priority category, combining expert-led discussion with peer insight in a relaxed, non-competitive environment. New for 2026, two additional topics provide even more opportunities for targeted intelligence and meaningful networking.

Free for FWD members, attendance is limited to two representatives per company to ensure focused discussion. Stay tuned for dates and booking details—don’t miss your chance to gain insight and strengthen relationships across the wholesale sector.

2026 dates and topics: 9 Feb – Tobacco & Vaping; 20 Apr – Foodservice; 18 May – Alcohol; 22 Jun – Grocery & Household; 19 Oct – Impulse.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Diversity in Wholesale initiative champions inclusion across the sector. By providing support, insight and practical guidance, the programme helps attract, retain and inspire talent from all backgrounds, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Key elements include the Women in Wholesale mentoring and networking series, the Future Leaders Forum, the Women in Wholesale Leaders Forum, and the Wholesale Star Awards, celebrating outstanding achievement.

Through events, training and best-practice sharing—both in-person and online—FWD helps wholesalers and suppliers foster inclusive cultures, overcome barriers to equity, and build a stronger, more diverse workforce for the future of wholesale. Get involved and help shape a sector where everyone can thrive.