- It’s not for nothing that St David’s Day is a key date in the diary of any food lover; the array of culinary treasures on offer is reason enough to relish this special day
With its internationally famed cornucopia of fabulous food and drink, it’s no wonder that food lovers of all persuasions are excited to celebrate St David’s Day this year. From the country’s growing family of GI food and drink, which garner acclaim across the world, and award-winning products to Wales’s powerful and inspirational sustainability initiatives, there is plenty to be proud of when it comes to the Welsh food and drink offering.
On St David’s Day, more shoppers than ever – across the world, but particularly in Britain and across the EU – are interested in exploring Wales’s culinary treasures. Within Wales itself, the numbers are staggering, demonstrating that wherever a food retailer is based, there is tangible value in stocking Welsh food and drink
The Value of Welshness
Wherever your business is based, we are confident that your customers will have a keen appetite for Welsh food and drink. The spectacular Welsh landscape, with its breathtaking coast, awe-inspiring mountains and rich land has great meaning to fine food consumers, who recognise the built-in quality of produce hailing from the country.
From expertly cured fish to uniquely delicious seafood, rich cheeses and world-renowned meats, there is an array of ways for Speciality Food retailers to tap into the growing demand for Welsh food and drink in time to celebrate St David’s Day.
On St David’s Day, more shoppers than ever – across the world, but particularly in Britain and across the EU – are interested in exploring Wales’s culinary treasures. Within Wales itself, the numbers are staggering, demonstrating that wherever a food retailer is based, there is tangible value in stocking Welsh food and drink. Food & Drink Wales data shows that 8 out of 10 consumers would choose Welsh produce in a like for like scenario, while the power of provenance reigns supreme, with 65% of shoppers in Wales willing to pay more for produce demonstrating Welsh heritage.
While an annual display centred around Welsh GI products and other products will undoubtedly reap rewards, a year-round offering is well worth exploration and investment. You will find plenty of inspiration around brands and products to stock in the Celebrating Welsh Food & Drink 2026 publication.
A Sustainable Future
In order to future-proof their operations and work towards a safer shared future, Welsh food and drink businesses are supported to consider their environmental impact and how the changing environment affects their future operations, lower their carbon emissions, improve their waste management systems and maximise the use of renewable energy sources. To find out more about the sustainable credentials of the Welsh food and drink industry, download the Celebrating Welsh Food & Drink 2026 publication.
Spotlight On: Welsh GI Products
If you’re seeking food and drink with premium quality, purchaseinspiring stories and heritage innate within GI products, there is plenty to choose from. These are the latest additions to the GI family:
WELSH HEATHER HONEY PGI
100% natural and minimally processed, this honey is the ultimate expression of Wales’ Ling Heather blooms and a full-bodied delight for food lovers far and wide.
DOVEY NATIVE BOTANICAL GIN PGI
17 botanicals from the Dyfi/Dovey UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve are celebrated in this gin, which offers a unique taste of this environmentally valuable landscape. Its peat moorlands, woodlands, salt marshes and coastal areas are distilled into every bottle.
PEMBROKESHIRE NATIVE OYSTERS PGI AND PEMBROKESHIRE ROCK OYSTERS PGI
Combining a history spanning back to the 17th Century and the nutrientrich waters of the Daugleddau Estuary, these oysters bring together ancient farming skills and innovative sustainability efforts for a flavour revered by renowned chefs.
