Future of Irish food trade takes centre stage at one-day forum in Kildare
Tickets are now on sale for the Irish Food Trade Connect Forum 2026 on 26 March at Killashee Hotel, Naas
Print16 March 2026
The Irish Food Trade Connect Forum 2026 is bringing one of the most practical, action‑focused line‑ups in the Irish food and drink calendar – and tickets are now on sale for this one‑day event on Thursday 26 March at Killashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare.
At a time when the sector is under pressure from rising costs, cautious consumers and constant change, this year’s Forum is zeroing in on the biggest digital and commercial challenges facing Irish food and drink – and the programme is designed to offer real solutions, not theory.
Retailers and suppliers are struggling to turn great innovation into on‑shelf performance in crowded categories; “Ideas That Sell” will unpack what buyers actually need to say yes, and how to use digital insights and data to back a compelling commercial story.
Planning with confidence
Across the supply chain, volatility, availability issues and compliance demands are making it harder than ever to plan with confidence; sessions on tech‑driven sourcing and “Smarter Food, Smarter Chains” will show how digital platforms, better data and automation can build resilience, transparency and efficiency from producer to plate.
Many businesses are also overwhelmed by AI, online regulation and constant content demands; talks on practical AI, food rules in a digital age, and “Beyond the Hashtag” will cut through the noise with clear, workable ways to stay compliant, communicate provenance and build trust in the midst of social media misinformation.
By framing these talks as responses to the real challenges delegates are already facing, the Forum positions itself as a one‑day toolbox of solutions – giving attendees concrete actions they can take back to their teams to drive innovation, competitiveness and growth.
An exhibition hall of 50 food, drink and service businesses will showcase their products and solutions throughout the day, creating a high‑impact environment to discover new ranges, partners and ideas in a single visit.
With the event now just over a week away and places limited, food and drink retailers, foodservice operators, producers, wholesalers and service providers are encouraged to secure their tickets now and make sure they are in the room on 26th March for a day not to be missed.
Secure your tickets here.
Read more: Irish Food Trade Connect Forum returns for 2026
© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan
Related Articles
Irish Food Trade Connect Forum set to put food business growth in focus →
Followers 0
Fans 0
Followers