Following a year of uncertainty in the grip of a global pandemic, it’s completely understandable that as we follow a roadmap out of lockdown, returning to something like normality, people may be unsure about the merits of attending a live indoor event.

As organisers of Farm Shop & Deli Show, part of the UK Food & Drink Shows, we want to reassure you that with over 150 years of experience, no one is better placed than William Reed Business Media to deliver safe and inspiring events. That’s why we’ve created this 10-point plan to help give you the confidence to return this July for a summertime celebration of our incredible industry, of a return to normality and the lifting of restrictions.

We want to reassure you that from the moment you set foot inside the NEC, to your final interaction of the day with one of over 800 exhibitors, nothing is more important to us than your safety, comfort and enjoyment – this is our plan to make your visit extraordinary, and to allow you to get back to business in a people-focused environment.

If you see a topic below that you would like to discuss further with our team, or if there’s a question you would like answered, don’t hesitate to contact us direct on exhibitions.socialmedia@wrbm.com

We can’t wait to see you!

1. We’ve helped to set the industry standard for event safety

William Reed has worked closely with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO) in developing industry wide AllSecure Standards, designed to provide the highest levels of hygiene and safety for visitors and exhibitors, allowing our shows to operate effectively and safely according to government and local authority guidance. Put simply, you’re in safe hands.

• Wider aisles to help social distancing

We have increased aisle sizes to at least 3m across the event as far as possible, while increasing the minimum stand depth to 2m, allowing exhibitors on smaller stands to meet with visitors within their stand space, and not dwell in gangways.

• Smart crowd flow

We’ll make sure all areas of the venue comply to government guidance. These measures will ensure maximum interaction levels in the safest environment possible.

• Sanitisation stations at every turn

Hand sanitising stations will be a fixture of the UK Food & Drink Shows, placed within easy reach throughout the show halls. Exhibitor stands will also be encouraged to have their own sanitising stations and to disinfect their respective stands and exhibits regularly throughout the event.

• Face masks and Track and Trace

Until government guidance says otherwise, face coverings will be compulsory within exhibition venues. We ask that you bring one with you for your visit, there will also be a limited supply at the venue. William Reed will work with the venue and local authorities to trace and contact participants at our events in line with the latest government advice.

• A Covid-free organising team

As a responsible organiser, bubbles will be in place for William Reed staff Allied to this, the entire team will be given a lateral flow test prior to the event. If any member should test positive, they will not be able to travel to the NEC

• A contactless show

We are implementing advanced registration and digital badging meaning everyone will be required to register in advance and download their digital badge or print their badge in advance of the event to reduce queueing and contact points. Our press office will also be completely paperless, while the exchange of business data will also be done electronically where possible.

• Safer stands and food sampling

Each of our exhibitors will follow a comprehensive protocol of measures covering health & safety, general venue & event measures, smarter stand design, stand hygiene & cleaning and staff welfare. Our amazing exhibitors are the lifeblood of our show, and in 2021 – in tried-and-true fashion – they too are going the extra mile for the greater good. Don't worry, you'll still be able to taste the great products on display. Exhibitors will be following the latest measures which includes individual sampling bags/cups/bowls.

• Covid compliant theatres

There will be an exciting number of features running throughout the show including demonstrations, masterclasses and topical seminars and debates. With your safety in mind, we have designed our theatres with socially distanced seating, complying with all governmental guidelines. 

1. Enhanced cleaning at the NEC

As one of the UK’s premier event spaces, our partners at the NEC Birmingham are also taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety and peace of mind of all of its visitors. These include a deep clean of the entire venue prior to commencing build-up and increased cleaning of high contact areas within the venue such as handrails and door handles. Moreover, the venue has ample parking pace for thousands of visitors.

You can register free today for Farm Shop & Deli Show here.

The UK Food & Drink Shows have recently been accredited with the ‘Visit Britain’ ‘We’re Good to Go’ accreditation verifying that the event meets Government and public health guidance on Covid-19 with all required health and safety processes in place to open safely in July.