Andy Adcock, Director of Food at Marks & Spencer has been announced as the keynote address at the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association’s 21st Annual Dinner. This comes as the retailer celebrates its 50^th year in Northern Ireland this year.

The event, supported by Danske Bank, is expected to attract over 200 industry leaders from across the local food and drink supply chain and further afield. Danske Bank has just confirmed a three-year partnership with NIFDA, which will see the bank support the Annual Dinner until 2019.

Announcing details of the dinner and the new sponsorship deal, Michael Bell, Executive Director, NIFDA said:

“In the 21st year of this dinner, we are particularly pleased that Andy Adcock, Director of Food at Marks & Spencer will deliver the keynote address. Like NIFDA, M&S is also celebrating a significant milestone this year, as they mark 50 years in Northern Ireland. It is fitting therefore that Andy has agreed to be with us on the night. He is a major player with decades of experience in the retail sector, so we look forward to hearing his perspective on the industry, as well as the unique insights he can provide for our growers and producers.

“We are delighted to have secured the backing of Danske Bank, which will see them commit their support to one of the most important annual agri-food events in the calendar. This commitment will enable our association to continue to provide our members with an important opportunity to connect, reflect and celebrate the achievements of Northern Ireland’s largest export industry.”

Andy Adcock, Director of Food at Marks & Spencer, said:

“Northern Ireland is a very special place for M&S and this is a special year for us. I’m delighted to speaking at next week’s event and look forward to an enjoyable evening exchanging views on the industry.”

Geoff Sharpe, Head of Corporate at Danske Bank said:

“Danske Bank is committed to supporting our local food and drink sector and we are privileged to work with some of Northern Ireland’s leading producers and processors. Our expertise provides support to a range of customers, from artisan brands in growth phase to larger, established corporates operating globally.

“The NIFDA dinner is a hugely important event in the business calendar and our sponsorship for the next three years affirms our commitment to supporting the sector.”

The 21st Annual NIFDA Dinner will take place on Wednesday 11th October in the Hilton Hotel Templepatrick. To reserve places at this event, contact the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association on 028 9024 1010.