From government ministers to supermarket buyers and even an Olympic champion, FOF22 has something for everyone

The Festival of Fresh will feature a combination of heavyweight industry speakers and lighthearted, fun elements as it offers a unique fresh produce industry experience.

The groundbreaking event, presented by the Fresh Produce Journal, takes place at the head office of Berry Gardens near Maidstone, Kent on 8 June. It offers a wide-ranging lineup of speakers, a tour of the brand new packhouse, robot demonstration, deckchairs, food trucks, entertainment and much more.

The speaker programme takes place in two tents, with delegates free to mix and match which they attend, as well as take drinks and chat to friends throughout in the outdoor networking area.

The Inspiration Tent kicks off with a heavyweight political discussion of the big events facing the industry today, with Defra minister Victoria Prentis being followed by a panel debate with the heads of NFU Horticulture, British Apples & Pears, British Summer Fruits and British Growers.

The session continues with interviews with a range of major figures from across the UK fresh produce supply base, with the full programme available to view at fpjlive.com.

The afternoon session opens with a special interview with Olympic champion and Berry Gardens ambassador Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, and is followed by an in-depth chat with Asda’s Rowena White and Dominic Edwards of IPL. The session concludes with expert analysis of the UK grocery retail market.

In the Innovation Tent, there’s a full programme looking at Science & Technology and The Road to Net Zero, with speakers showcasing new technology, energy-saving initiatives and case studies of how to farm more sustainably.

Tickets cost just £150 and are available now at www.fpjlive.com.