Atlante Connects 2026 explores uncertainty, consumer change and the power of human connection

Industry leaders from across food, drink, retail, consumer insight and social impact gathered in London on 11 June for Atlante Connects 2026, a summit hosted at the OXO Tower to examine how businesses can navigate economic uncertainty while building stronger relationships with consumers and communities.

The event brought together voices from across and beyond the food sector, creating a forum to discuss the forces reshaping the industry — from global trade pressures and macroeconomic volatility to shifting consumer behaviour and rising expectations around brand purpose.

Uncertainty and consumer change dominate discussion

Speakers explored how organisations are adapting to an environment where unpredictability has become the norm.

Sessions examined the direction of global markets, the impact of geopolitical tensions and the evolving attitudes influencing purchasing decisions, loyalty and expectations of business.

A deep dive into UK consumer behaviour highlighted how changing priorities — from value and trust to lifestyle shifts — are reshaping the way brands must communicate and innovate.

Human connection emerges as a defining theme

A second major thread running through the day was the growing importance of real‑world connection.

Speakers discussed the rise of alcohol‑free social habits, the strengthening of local networks and the role of community‑driven initiatives such as food redistribution.

Across perspectives, the message was clear: in an increasingly digital and uncertain world, businesses that foster trust, collaboration and meaningful human relationships will be best positioned to create long‑term value.

Industry leaders share insights

The speaker line‑up included Atlante CEO Natasha Linhart, UK business unit director Philip Durham, Thursday co‑founder Matthew McNeill Love, Club Soda co‑founder Laura Willoughby MBE, Food Matters International director Judith Batchelar OBE, City Harvest London senior food sourcing manager Jamie Dyck, Worldpanel UK consumer insight director Anna Cole, and Sky News economics and data editor Ed Conway.

Linhart emphasised the importance of staying connected to the stories behind food: “By understanding where products come from, how they’re made, and the complex network of ingredients, producers and partners involved, we can make better decisions as businesses and foster greater trust among consumers.”

Durham highlighted how diverse topics converged around a single theme: “Whether we were talking about trade, consumer behaviour, food redistribution or changing social habits, the importance of connection kept coming through.”

A platform for collaboration

Atlante Connects forms part of the company’s ongoing commitment to industry dialogue, knowledge‑sharing and cross‑sector collaboration.

The event underscored that many of the challenges facing the food and drink industry cannot be solved in isolation — and that partnership will be essential to driving sustainable growth in the years ahead.