Trends vs Fads: How Sainsbury’s, M&S, and Jamie Oliver Approach Food Innovation with Lisa Harris and Alex Hayes

Episode notes

In this episode of Food Tech Talk, Lydia Adams speaks with Lisa Harris and Alex Hayes about their journey from food journalism and product development to founding Harris and Hayes, a leading food consultancy firm. Drawing from their extensive experience with major brands like Jamie Oliver, Marks & Spencer, and Sainsbury's, they discuss how sustainability has evolved from an afterthought to a core consideration in food innovation. Lisa and Alex explain their approach to trend analysis, distinguishing between temporary fads and lasting trends driven by deeper consumer behaviors. They explore emerging concepts like "chaos packaging" and the rise of bold flavors, while sharing insights on how brands can stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry. The conversation covers the intersection of health and sustainability, the importance of authentic innovation, and how global food trends differ between markets. They emphasize the growing demand for accountability and personalization in the food industry, while sharing practical advice for both established brands and newcomers.

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