Brakes has announced three major live food events for 2024, each featuring more than 60 stands with a range of small businesses and national brands, alongside live demonstrations and presentations on food trends.

An online event is running alongside the physical events allowing customers to access content from the live event virtually.

Starting in Scotland on 1 May, the Foodie event will visit Birmingham on 22 May, before ending in the South of England on 25 September.

The Scottish event will take place at the Royal Highland Centre and allows customers to meet small local food producers as well as national brands. Throughout the day, customers will be able see a range of demonstrations highlighting topical events and the latest trends in foodservice, including Grab & Go, Plant-Forward and Summer Dining.

There will be more than 70 stands allowing customers to talk to a wide range of suppliers and sample new and interesting food, drink and catering supplies in one place.

On 22 May, the Expo moves to Birmingham, where customers will be able to experience similar demonstrations, with the addition of specialist care and education presentations. With more than 60 stands to choose from, there will be something to interest everyone.

Paul Nieduszynski, Sysco GB CEO, said: “Last year, we launched our first major live events since the pandemic and the feedback was excellent. There’s nothing like being able to see, smell and taste food to help make decisions on menus.

“This year we’ve expanded the Foodie Expo to include live demonstrations so that we can provide practical examples of how products can be used in kitchens.”

Brakes online event showcases 45 virtual stands, and features a host of helpful resources including recipes, insights and solutions to save money, time and labour among other things. As well as seeing new products and solutions, customers will be able to take part in competitions and earn mybrakes rewards cashback on the products featured.