The Britain’s Best Loaf competition has been postponed to September because of concerns over coronavirus.

William Reed Business Media (WRBM), publisher of British Baker, has taken the difficult decision to postpone all five food shows – including Foodex and Farm Shop & Deli – that were due to be held at the NEC Birmingham from 30 March to 1 April. You can read a full statement on the postponement here.

Britain’s Best Loaf was to have taken place at the Foodex show on 30 March.

WRBM has been working closely with the NEC to secure new dates and, as a result, Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show and National Convenience Show will now take place at the NEC on 7–9 September 2020. There is not enough hall space to co-locate Foodex and The Ingredients Show on the same date, so these will move to 12–14 April 2021.

Britain’s Best Loaf 2020 will now be held at the Farm Shop & Deli show at the NEC and will run on Monday 7 September 2020.

In all other ways it will still be the fantastic event that attracts entrants from across the country. Entries will automatically be transferred to the new date.

Loaves will be judged across six categories – Gluten Free, Innovation, White, Wholegrain, Plain Sourdough, and Sourdough with Other Ingredients – with the winning loaf from each in the running to take the ultimate accolade of Britain’s Best Loaf.

Industry professionals will once again judge the contest, which can deliver real benefits for a business. Previous winners have said their success has helped boost sales and led to new listings.

“I am sure customers will understand why we have had to take this difficult decision,” said British Baker editor Vince Bamford. “By acting now, the company hopes to remove uncertainty and allow businesses to plan as effectively as possible.

“We will look forward to seeing and judging the best that Britain’s bakers have to offer at the Farm Shop & Deli Show in September.”