Day two of the Plant Based World Expo Europe 2024 conference program, set for November 14 at ExCel in London, offers a compelling lineup tailored to food industry professionals keen on exploring emerging trends, market dynamics, and strategic innovations within the plant-based sector. With insights into the U.S. market, European plant-based growth, dairy-free disruption, and plant-based menus in education and catering, Day 2 promises essential learning for professionals focused on the industry’s expansion.

Read below for summaries of each session and browse the entire program here.

10:15am – 11:15am: The U.S. Market – Why, Where, When and How

For European brands eyeing the U.S. market, this session brings together experts in the fields of sales, marketing, and operations to provide actionable insights on breaking into North American retail and foodservice sectors. Moderator Stephanie Lind, Founder of Elohi Strategic Advisors, will guide industry veterans Grant Burgess and Scott Glassman in a discussion of common pitfalls, market-specific strategies, and resources essential for success in a market with vastly different regulations and consumer expectations. Attendees will receive bonus materials designed to help create a detailed game plan for entering the North American arena.

11:30am – 12:15pm: Trends In The European Plant-Based Retail Market, 2021 To Early 2024

Helen Breewood from the Good Food Institute Europe will explore the latest retail data from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK. Her analysis highlights significant sales growth, especially in plant-based dairy categories, despite recent market challenges. Attendees will gain a clearer picture of plant-based consumer preferences, retailer demands, and product innovations across Europe, providing a robust foundation for companies looking to optimize their strategies and product offerings within these key markets.

12:30pm – 1:15pm: Dairy Disruptors: Exploring the Dairy-Free Revolution

Moderated by Indy Kaur, Founder of Plant Futures, this session addresses the growth of dairy-free products in response to rising consumer demand. With representatives from brands like La Fauxmagerie, Oatly, and Mummy Meegz, the panel will discuss innovations in taste, nutritional value, and allergen considerations. The conversation will explore consumer motivations, the competitive landscape, and the potential for a dedicated marketing campaign akin to “Got Milk?” to elevate dairy-free options and inspire widespread adoption across retail and foodservice channels.

1:30pm – 2:15pm: Leading the Change: A Status Update on Plant-Based Catering for the Further Education Sector

With insights from TUCO’s Culinary Lead Graeme Collie, Chef and Food Writer Jenny Chandler, and Humane Society International’s Joanna Randall, this session examines how colleges and universities can integrate more plant-based options into their food programs. The discussion will cover culinary training, recipe development, and consumer engagement to meet the dietary and environmental needs of Gen Z students. Attendees will gain valuable takeaways on implementing cost-effective, health-focused plant-based solutions within the education sector.

2:30pm – 3:30pm: What Are Companies Prioritising for Their Plant-Based Ranges for 2025?

The final session of the day brings together a panel of buyers from across Europe to share their perspectives on what they want in the plant-based products of tomorrow. With insights from industry leaders such as Simon Hurley of P2P Food Solutions and John O’Connor of Global Natural Connections Ltd, this discussion will reveal the latest buyer expectations, including emerging product formats, ingredient sourcing, and consumer demand for quality and transparency. A must-attend for brands eager to align their 2025 offerings with buyer demands across retail and foodservice.

The Day 2 conference sessions at Plant Based World Expo Europe 2024 are packed with insights to guide industry professionals through market entry, trend analysis, and consumer engagement strategies. Stay tuned to Plant Based World Pulse for further coverage of the event, as we explore the trends and industry insights driving the plant-based movement forward. Register now for your complimentary expo and conference pass!