Unlocking Growth: Why Exhibiting at the EXPO is Essential for Your Brand’s Success


By Debbie Stewart August 10, 2025

Why Exhibiting at the International Cheese & Dairy EXPO is a Game-Changer for Your Brand

The International Cheese & Dairy EXPO  stands as a premier global event, attracting over 2,500 industry professionals and contributing to a sector valued at over £670 billion globally. As global demand for dairy products continues to rise, with projected growth of 5% annually, the  EXPO provides a critical platform for producers and brands to stay ahead of industry trends and market opportunities. With over 2,500 attendees, including leading technicians, marketers, buyers, retailers, and category managers, the  EXPO  provides an unparalleled platform to showcase products, strengthen networks, and gain invaluable insights. For businesses looking to elevate their presence in a competitive market, exhibiting at this prestigious event is not just an opportunity - it’s a strategic imperative.


A Hub for Industry Decision-Makers

Exhibitors also gain exclusive access to the dedicated Networking Lounge, sponsored by Fayrefield Foods. This inviting space offers free tea, coffee, and a grazing board to enjoy, providing a relaxed yet professional setting for meaningful conversations. Whether engaging with potential buyers, forging partnerships, or exchanging insights with industry peers, the Networking Lounge fosters valuable connections that can drive business growth.


Exhibiting at the 
International Cheese & Dairy EXPO ensures direct access to key stakeholders who influence purchasing decisions and market trends. Retailers and buyers attend with the goal of sourcing innovative products, while category managers seek the next big trends that will shape consumer demand. This concentration of industry professionals presents an ideal environment for business development, fostering high-value conversations that can lead to new partnerships, distribution deals, and enhanced brand visibility.


A Showcase for Innovation and Craftsmanship

The EXPO serves as a stage for brands to highlight their latest offerings, from artisanal cheeses to cutting-edge dairy technology. With live demonstrations, sampling opportunities, and interactive displays, exhibitors can create immersive experiences that captivate attendees and leave a lasting impression. In an industry where taste and quality are paramount, there is no substitute for firsthand engagement.


Aligning with the Prestigious ICDA Awards

A key draw of the  EXPO  is its alignment with the International Cheese & Dairy Awards (  ICDA  ), one of the most respected accolades in the industry. Winning or being associated with the  ICDA Awards enhances a brand’s credibility, with past winners reporting increased sales, stronger retail partnerships, and expanded distribution networks. Further reinforcing the value of industry accolades in a competitive marketplace, opening doors to greater market recognition and trust. Exhibitors benefit from the heightened exposure and media coverage surrounding the awards, amplifying their reach to global audiences.


Global Networking and Market Expansion

With attendees from around the world, the  EXPO  provides a unique platform, with past exhibitors reporting significant market expansion and international distribution deals. Companies leveraging the event for networking and exposure have experienced an increase in sales and stronger footholds in emerging dairy markets. For producers and brands looking to expand beyond their domestic footprint, connecting with local and overseas buyers and distributors at the event can be a pivotal step toward international growth.


Expert Insights and Industry Trends

Beyond showcasing products, the  EXPO  offers talks, featuring renowned industry experts such as leading dairy technologists, sustainability advocates, and market analysts. These sessions provide exhibitors with valuable insights into market trends, regulatory updates, sustainability practices, and evolving consumer behaviours. This year we also welcome the Academy of Cheese who will be holding sessions on how to judge cheese, and the benefits this knowledge can give buyers.
Staying ahead of industry shifts is critical for long-term success, and the 
EXPO  offers a front-row seat to the latest developments shaping the cheese and dairy landscape.


Maximising ROI Through Targeted Engagement

Exhibiting at the International Cheese & Dairy EXPO  is a strategic investment, with trade shows delivering, on average, a 4:1 return on investment compared to digital marketing campaigns. Compared to other marketing channels, in-person engagement at a specialised trade event significantly increases lead conversion rates and long-term customer retention. The ability to generate leads, receive immediate feedback, and foster meaningful business relationships sets this event apart as a must-attend for any serious industry player.


Conclusion: A Must-Attend for Industry Leaders

For brands looking to strengthen their market position, forge valuable connections, and gain industry recognition, the  International Cheese & Dairy EXPO  and  International Cheese and Dairy Awards  presents an unrivalled opportunity. By exhibiting, businesses not only position themselves at the heart of the industry but also benefit from the powerful synergy of networking, innovation, and prestige associated with the ICDA Awards.


Don’t miss the chance to be part of this influential event - your next big opportunity starts here.


For further information contact Debbie Stewart - debbie@internationalcheesedairyexpo.com 

DAIRY CONNECT

Connecting Dairy's Future


The Dairy Mail

Sign up to get industry insights, trends, and more in your inbox.

Contact Us

SHARE THIS

Latest Posts

By Debbie Stewart August 1, 2025
Sponsorship of the awards is a good way of increasing brand awareness, generating consumer preference and fostering brand loyalty.
By steve March 28, 2025
Some insight into how we judge nearly 5,500 cheese and dairy products in a day
March 13, 2025
A Strategic Advantage for Cheese and Dairy Professionals
By Steve Moncrieff September 24, 2024
Snowdonia Cheese Co won three prestigious accolades at the International Cheese & Dairy Awards 2024. Our new cheese bakes, launched last year, won their first awards: a gold for our Rock Star Cheese & Wine Bake, and a silver for our Black Bomber Welsh Rarebit Cheese Bake. In addition, Red Devil – our spicy Red Leicester with Habanero chillies and peppers – took home a bronze medal. The International Cheese & Dairy Awards, which took place at Bingley Hall in Staffordshire County Showground, Stafford, on 27th June, have been running for 128 years. As the world’s biggest platform championing world-class cheese and dairy producers, it attracts more than 5,500 entries each year – so to receive not one but three medals is a huge honour. To discover their award-winning cheeses and cheese bakes, visit their online shop.
By steve September 3, 2024
4 MINUTE READ #GLOBAL #BRANDS
By steve July 8, 2024
The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.
CHR HANSON
January 16, 2023
Chr. Hansen have become the new sponsor of the Supreme Champion at the International Cheese and Dairy Awards (ICDA) 2023
July 15, 2022
A blue cheese made by Long Clawson Dairy was named Supreme Champion Cheese in Stafford, UK on Thursday 30 June. Shropshire Blue rose to the top as the best UK and intern ational cheese at the International Cheese & Dairy Awards, which was held at Staffordshire County Showground as part of the three-day cheese and dairy event, combining a one-day trade show with a two day consumer festival – Love Cheese Live. Produced by The Long Clawson Dairy co-operative established in 1911 that continues to be run by farmers and relies on local milk from over 41 farms in Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire to create a range of very special cheeses. “We’re delighted that our small farming cooperative, where the craft and care of our master cheesemakers is so important to us, was recognised through our delicious Shropshire Blue entry. We’re still on high spirits after our win and are busy making space in our awards cabinet for the Supreme Champion Trophy!” said Bill Mathieson, Managing Director, Long Clawson Dairy. Despite its name, Shropshire Blue isn't made in Shropshire, nor has it ever been. It was originally made in Scotland and is now made in the Stilton producing regions of Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire by Long Clawson Dairy. The cheeses are then matured for their full term of n a period of 10-12 weeks, it forms an orange-brown, natural rind and smooth texture. With a sharp, strong flavour and a bit tangy aroma, it is a vegetarian's cheese having a fat content of 48%. Dai Williams, Head pf Judging at the International Cheese & Dairy Awards commented, “Once again we have had fantastic support from all aspects of our industry with 238 judges from all business sectors supporting us on the day. The effort to judge 4000 cheeses in 400 plus classes and get to the winner in four hours is a fantastic achievement by all.” In a close-run final, the Supreme runner up was awarded to a goats cheese made by FrieslandCampina in Holland. The Supreme Champion Dairy Product (non-dairy) went to Fonterra for their culinary cream and Morrisons were awarded Supreme Cheese Retailer. Ian Luxton, Chairman of the International Cheese & Dairy Awards, added: “As the ICDAs was founded over 125 years ago to showcase the work of the British and International cheesemakers, it gives me immense pleasure to see a cheesemaking business with such history taking top honours. It’s an incredible feat to stand out in a field of over 4,000 cheeses from every corner of the world, but Long Clawson clearly had everything: delivering an exceptional appearance, aroma, texture and flavour. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the sponsors, retailers, suppliers to the industry, competitors and trade for their continued support of this very special awards and one rich in heritage.” The 125th International Cheese & Dairy Awards was bigger and more international than ever before, featuring over 4,000 entries. The competing classes represented countries from all around the world. All entries were judged in a single day, as 238 experts considered appearance, texture, aroma, and flavour of the cheese, dairy and accompaniments. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Champion accolades were awarded first, before the Supreme Champions were reassessed to find this year’s trophy winners.
ROWCLIFFE
April 19, 2022
The Awards are proud to support UK and International artisan cheese and dairy producers. It has been a difficult couple of years and we need to continue to buy and support the smaller producers and recognise the quality and effort they put into their products. This year we are introducing the Supreme Artisan Producer of the Year Award which is sponsored by Rowcliffe and will be presented during the trade lunch. This award is important to the industry as is supports and creates awareness for the artisan producers. The winner will receive a Key Sponsor Package for 2023 and a market stall at next year’s awards. Anyone wanting more information about these awards should contact our Artisan representative Kerry Love on kerry.love@btinternet.com .
April 19, 2022
The International Cheese and Dairy Awards and pleased to announce their new Key Sponsor Americold. Americold offers the most comprehensive temperature-controlled storage and distribution network available, supported by the most advanced technology, and with a singular focus on customer service. For almost 120 years, Americold has been the leader in providing technology-based engineered solutions for the temperature-controlled supply chain industry. Our inspiration comes from, the producers, retailers, and food service providers we partner with daily, to bring passion to market. We have over 16,000 associates and offer a wide variety of career opportunities - from warehouse forklift operators and supervisors to accounting, administration, business development, customer support, engineering, transportation, and technology solutions positions.  At Americold, we’re always on the move, providing the vital link from farm to fork.
Show More