Last week, Plant Based World Expo Europe celebrated its 4th annual event at ExCeL London, solidifying its position as the premier 100% plant-based trade show for retail and foodservice professionals. With nearly 3,000 attendees and 151 exhibitors from across the globe, the two-day event demonstrated the growing demand for plant-based innovation and provided a platform for meaningful connections and business opportunities.

A Global Showcase of Plant-Based Pioneers

The exhibit floor brimmed with innovation, showcasing everything from allergy-free tikka kebabs by Shicken to non-dairy cheeses by Green Vie and salmon and caviar by Konscious Foods. Exhibitors from around the world introduced their pioneering products to a captivated audience of retailers, caterers, restauranteurs, and industry leaders. Attendees sampled cutting-edge products such as sliders, sushi rolls, and plant-based desserts, each embodying the spirit of culinary creativity and sustainability.

The international scope of the event was evident in the presence of exhibitors from Brazil, Italy, Germany, Thailand, and beyond, offering buyers a unique opportunity to discover global trends and flavors.

Industry Insights and Networking Opportunities

The Expo’s three educational stages hosted thought leaders and expert speakers who shared valuable insights into key trends, consumer behavior, and the future of plant-based foods. Notable sessions included updates from The Vegetarian Society, which unveiled its new Plant-Based Trademark, and presentations from organizations like GFI, SPINS, and Impossible Foods.

Culinary demonstrations added excitement to the event, with celebrity chefs David and Stephen Flynn of The Happy Pear drawing packed crowds as they whipped up vegan delights such as chocolate mousse. TV chef Rosemary Shrager also attended, showcasing her line of plant-based jams and chutneys.

Meanwhile, the Hosted Buyer Programme facilitated high-level sales meetings between exhibitors and major players like Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Sodexo, and Sysco. These connections underscored the Expo’s ability to drive the plant-based movement forward through meaningful partnerships.

Celebrating Excellence in Plant-Based Products

The first day culminated in the Plant-Based Excellence Awards, which honored the industry’s top innovators across 15 categories. The coveted Best Product of 2024 award went to Let it V Foods for their Veikon Bacon, a smoky and crispy plant-based alternative that wowed judges and attendees alike (stay tuned for a full recap of the award winners!).

A Shared Vision for the Future

Exhibitors and attendees alike lauded the event’s impact on their businesses and the plant-based industry as a whole. “In general, plant-based is becoming better and better in terms of quality, and it’s great to see that represented at Plant Based World,” said Gertjan Kruijk, Owner-Director at Brandplant.

With a record-breaking year and growing momentum, Plant Based World Expo Europe continues to serve as a critical platform for advancing plant-based innovation and fostering collaboration. Next, we look back to New York for the 6^th installment of Plant Based World Expo North America, taking place September 24-25, 2025 at the Javits Center. The Europe event returns to ExCeL London on 12-13th November 2025, promising even greater opportunities for the global plant-based community.