NEWS & BLOG

FORTNUM & MASON FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS

FORTNUM & MASON FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS

Since 2013, Fab Communications has proudly shaped and elevated the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards into one of the most anticipated and culturally significant moments in the UK’s culinary calendar. What began as a prestigious recognition platform has, through a carefully crafted strategic PR approach, grown into a celebration that resonates far beyond the industry capturing the imagination of both professionals and the public alike.

From the outset, our role has been to define not just the visibility of the Awards, but their voice. Through targeted media relations, compelling storytelling, and an understanding of the evolving food and drink landscape, we have secured consistent coverage across leading national, lifestyle, and specialist publications, as well as major broadcasting outlets. This sustained presence has cemented the Awards as a benchmark of excellence and reinforced the enduring prestige of Fortnum & Mason itself.

At the heart of the Awards is a mission to celebrate the richness and diversity of food and drink storytelling across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Each year, writers, broadcasters, photographers, and digital creators are recognised for their ability to bring culinary culture to life whether through long-form journalism, innovative broadcasting, or engaging social content.  Their work reflects a tapestry of cultural influences and traditions, inspiring audiences to explore food and drink in deeper, more meaningful ways.

A defining feature of the Awards is its independent and ever-evolving judging panel, ensuring fresh perspectives and rigorous standards year after year. Expertly chaired by Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Angela Hartnett, the panel has included an extraordinary roster of talent such as Leyla Kazim, Tom Parker Bowles, Monica Galetti, Marcus Wareing, and Asma Khan, among many others. Their collective expertise ensures that each winner represents the very best in their field.

In recent years, the Awards have also embraced the dynamic world of digital content. Public vote decides the Content Creator and Rising Star Content Creator awards, reflecting the growing influence of online voices. Working closely with Meta, TikTok, and YouTube, we help shape engaging shortlists that empower nominees to connect with their audiences and mobilise support.

The culmination of each year’s programme is a spectacular awards ceremony held at The Royal Exchange in London. Hosted by Andi Oliver alongside Angela Hartnett, the event brings together an extraordinary gathering of culinary and cultural figures. Guests have included icons such as Dame Mary Berry, Tom Kerridge, Stanley Tucci, and James Martin – a true reflection of the Awards’ influence and reach.

Fourteen years on, the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards continue to thrive.  For Fab Communications, this remains a flagship example of how strategic storytelling and thoughtful PR can transform an event into a lasting cultural institution that celebrates excellence and actively shapes the future of food and drink in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

LARA ANTHONY-SMITH

Written by

LARA ANTHONY-SMITH

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