Hampshire Fare brought a true taste of the county to London earlier this month, showcasing five outstanding local producers at the prestigious Speciality & Fine Food Fair. Held at Olympia London, the event is one of the UK’s leading trade shows for artisan food and drink, attracting buyers, retailers, distributors, and industry professionals from across the country.

On the Taste of Hampshire stand were:

• Boka – creators of the UK’s only all green-light cereal bars
• Callaloo Corner – award-winning Caribbean sauces inspired by family recipes
• ChalkStream Foods – premium trout raised in the famous River Test
• New Forest Shortbread – handmade, buttery shortbread with a local twist
• The Fabulous Catch Company – fish and crab cakes made in Hampshire

Across two busy days, the producers welcomed a steady stream of buyers, generating strong leads, securing new stockists, and opening doors to exciting opportunities across retail, catering, and beyond.

Natasha Dochniak, Commercial Manager of Hampshire Fare, said:

“It was a fantastic show to be part of, and our ‘Taste of Hampshire’ stand was so well received by buyers. This was our debut at the Speciality & Fine Food Fair, and its success underlines the strength and quality of our county’s producers. I’ve always had a strong vision and passion for taking Hampshire out of Hampshire – showcasing our people, passion, and produce on a national stage. Off the back of this year’s success, we’re already looking at other initiatives like this for 2026.”

For the producers, the impact was immediate. Christine Lee Wing of Callaloo Corner said:

“Being part of the Speciality & Fine Food Fair with Hampshire Fare was an incredible opportunity. It gave us a platform to showcase our award-winning Caribbean sauces to buyers we might never have reached otherwise, opened doors to exciting new leads – including a new stockist – and allowed us to connect with both retail and catering businesses. The experience was invaluable in helping us grow as a micro food business from Hampshire.”

Hampshire Fare extends its thanks to New Forest District Council, Test Valley Borough Council, and Winchester City Council for their support in making this showcase possible. Their backing ensures local producers can be represented on a national stage and continue to thrive.