Future of Specialty Food: SFA Unveils Strategic Roadmap for 2026
New York, maandag, 30 juni 2025.
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) presents a forward-looking vision for the specialty food sector, focusing on streamlined categories and innovative perspectives. The sofi Awards will take place during the Winter Fancy Food Show in January 2026 as the premier platform for recognition and innovation. With over 4,000 affiliated companies worldwide, the SFA positions itself as a crucial catalyst for development and growth in the specialty food sector. The organisation aims to connect artisans, suppliers, importers, distributors, and retailers, with the goal of further professionalising the sector and creating new opportunities for both producers and retailers.
SFA Representation and Reach
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) currently represents over 4,000 companies worldwide in the specialty food sector, with a total market size of approximately $207 billion [1]. The organisation serves as a crucial connecting platform for artisans, suppliers, importers, distributors, and retailers, focusing on continuous professionalisation and innovation [2].
Strategic Events in 2026
In January 2026, the SFA will host the Winter Fancy Food Show, where the renowned sofi Awards will take centre stage [3]. These awards, which have honoured excellence in specialty food and drink since 1972, will take place in a renewed format with streamlined, more competitive categories [4].
Future Perspectives
The SFA recently introduced the Fancy Food Rising Stars programme, which focuses on promising professionals under 35 in the specialty food sector [5]. This initiative underscores the ambition to identify and support new generations of leaders in a dynamic and innovative industry [6].