Women and international businesses get the spotlight at country’s biggest food event
Australia’s ultimate trade event for the foodservice and hospitality industry, Fine Food Australia, is returning to Sydney. For more than 40 years, Fine Food Australia has been where the industry comes together to uncover what’s new and what’s next. But beyond the incredible display of food innovation, Fine Food Australia is also a powerful platform for representation, showcasing a growing number of female-led and international food businesses who are shaping the future of the industry.
With standout female-led brands like Madame Tiger, founded by Laura Hindson, a pioneering plant-based milk brand made from tiger nuts. Combining sustainability with rich nutrition, it’s quickly becoming a favourite among health-conscious consumers seeking delicious dairy alternatives. Another crowd favourite returning to the show is Saucy Wench, founded by Lisa Liu, who turned her family’s traditional recipes into a thriving business. Her signature range of small-batch Asian sauces and dumplings has built a loyal following, especially among those seeking authentic flavour with a modern twist. Lisa is all about bringing the flavour and personality to every dish. She's even gone on to win the award for Brisbane's best handmade business, making her mark in the food industry. There's also Heidi Walker one of the founders of Walkers Tuna, Australia’s largest wild-caught tuna and swordfish company, dedicated to delivering premium, sustainable seafood to Australians nationwide. They have partnered with renowned chef Neil Perry to create a retail range that brings restaurant-quality tuna to homes across the country. They will be showcasing their fresh, trustworthy tuna at Fine Food Australia for everyone to enjoy. These brands are more than just exhibitors they are proof that the industry is evolving, with women making their mark and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs
In addition, the event showcases a diverse range of international businesses and businesspeople, perfectly representing the nation’s melting pot of food and people. This year there will be a strong international presence with representation from a vast number of nations and businesses present, including Nam Viet Foods & Beverage Joint Stock Company, known for its authentic Vietnamese food and beverage products, All Japan Trade Association of Confectionery Manufacturers featuring the artistry and innovation of Japan’s sweets industry and Exotic Food Public Company bringing the bold, vibrant flavours of Thailand to Australian buyers and consumers. The strong overseas presence not only creates export and import opportunities but also fosters cultural exchange, opening doors to collaborations that enrich the Australian food scene.
Fine Food Australia has a reputation for leading the industry when it comes to networking, trend forecasting, and inspiration, but the event also tells a much broader story than what's trending on menus. It reflects a dynamic and diverse industry, where women and multicultural voices are able to be heard. There is increasing representation of women and culturally diverse business owners in Australia’s food industry and Fine Food Australia is offering these brands a platform to connect, grow, and thrive.
The event will run from 8–11 September at ICC Sydney, with thousands of exhibitors and visitors expected to attend. Whether you’re there to discover the next big product, connect with industry leaders, or simply soak up the energy of the country’s largest food trade event, you'll leave inspired by the diversity, creativity, and innovation shaping the future of food.
