Another GFSI conference in the books - and once again, LRQA was at the centre of the conversation
From the outset, GFSI 2025 set the tone for serious conversations about the future of the food and beverage sector, as organisations actively evolve their risk management strategies. At the LRQA stand, these conversations came to life; with three to four meetings happening in parallel and more than 35 client engagements across the event, the energy was relentless and the intent unmistakable: the world’s leading food brands are ready to move forward – and LRQA is helping lead the way.
At the heart of it all was a bold, shared vision for the future of food safety – one rooted in transparency, clarity and trust.
“This year, the spotlight was on transformation – and what we’re hearing from clients is exactly where we’re already focused. Our 2nd party customised programmes and data-driven segmentation models are exactly what clients need to drive smarter, faster interventions across their supply base,” said Stuart Kelly, LRQA’s Chief Commercial Officer.
Big conversations, bigger opportunities
Whether reconnecting with global food brands or welcoming new prospects, we saw the real value of LRQA’s leadership. “These weren’t small talk moments – they were catalyst conversations” Stuart said. From leading retailers reopening conversations around supplier audit programmes after nearly a decade, to multinational food and beverage companies actively seeking third-party certification with added value across global operations, the tone was clear: LRQA is the partner of choice for organisations that are serious about food safety risk management.
“What really stood out was the level of engagement at our stand. We had a constant flow of meaningful conversations and back-to-back meetings with top-tier clients and prospects,” said Enrico Memmo, LRQA’s Global Head of Strategic Accounts. “Among the most impactful was a discussion with a multinational manufacturer of confectionery, pet food and other food products about developing a training academy to support over 1,200 suppliers. These conversations reinforced that our solutions – particularly around product integrity – are exactly what the market needs.”
Tech Talk spotlight: Data that drives action
One of the standout sessions came from Kimberly Coffin, LRQA’s Technical Director for Supply Chain Assurance. In a packed Tech Talk on supplier segmentation and digital transformation, Kimberly was joined by global leader and LRQA client McCormick & Company to explore how data-led insights can enable sharper, faster and more resilient interventions across global supply chains.
Her message was clear: the food industry doesn’t just need data – it needs actionable intelligence that enables precise, risk-based decisions. LRQA’s approach to segmentation and tiered supplier management is already unlocking major gains in visibility, integrity and trust.
“It’s about moving from broad-stroke compliance to targeted assurance,” said Kimberly. “With data, we can pinpoint exactly where support is needed most.”
A celebration of shared purpose
Beyond the busy meetings and technical discussions, the human side shone through. Our annual client dinner was described as the “best yet” – not just for the atmosphere, but for the genuine connections and mutual appreciation that filled the room. With 44 clients in attendance, it was a night that reminded us how strong partnerships are built: through trust, shared ambition and relentless delivery.
Leading the future
From compliance to culture, segmentation to supplier empowerment, LRQA’s presence at GFSI 2025 was a clear statement of leadership – and one backed by results. With a pipeline of new opportunities, major client engagements and growing interest in our digital solutions, it’s clear: the market is moving, and we’re out in front.
“We’ve spent the last decade building something powerful in the food and beverage space,” said Mark Morales, LRQA’s Head of Food and Beverage. “What we saw at GFSI was confirmation that the industry sees it too.”
Find out more about how LRQA is supporting the food sector
