‘This could be the last one’ - Fears for future Ludlow Food Festival due to ‘rising costs’
Ludlow Marches Food and Drink board of directors say economic pressures could put paid to the event.
Organisers of Ludlow’s hugely popular food festival say they are at a “crossroads” over the event’s future due to an “increasingly challenging climate” with this year possibly being the last in its current format.
In a statement, Ludlow Marches Food and Drink board of directors, which have put on the Ludlow Food Festival for the last 30 years, said “economic pressures and technology changes mean that staging large-scale events has never been more difficult”.
The festival, one of the UK’s most celebrated food events that attracts visitors from across the country, is returning to Ludlow on September 11.
But organiser say staging a large-scale event such as the festival “has never been more difficult” and this year’s festival “could be the last one” due to rising costs.
Ludlow Marches Food and Drink said in their statement: “This year, we’re investing in the visitor experience with more immersive demonstrations, kids’ activities, affordable hands-on workshops and opportunities to meet producers, while also bringing back much-loved aspects of the programme, such as the chef demos and live fire cooking.
“We want the festival to be more engaging, interactive and memorable than ever.
“We have always been a not for profit organization and whilst we do employ a few staff most of the organisers are volunteers who do it for the love of it.
“However, like many events, festivals and hospitality businesses, we are operating in an increasingly challenging climate.
“We weathered the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression and we re-emerged after Covid but rising costs, economic pressures and technology changes mean that staging large-scale events has never been more difficult.
“We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience, showcasing the very best food and drink producers, chefs, retailers and hospitality businesses from the region and beyond. But we now stand at a crossroads.
“While this year’s September festival could be the best yet with loads of new features for foodies and families alike, rising costs mean that this could be the last one in the current format unless we see more people through the castle gates.
“These festivals are about much more than a weekend event. They support local producers, attract visitors to the town, generate significant economic benefits for businesses across the region, and help maintain Ludlow’s reputation as one of Britain’s great food destinations.
“If Ludlow Food Festival means something to you, this year is the year to support it. Buy a ticket, bring friends and family, spread the word, and help ensure that this iconic festival can continue for future generations to enjoy.
“Together, we can help secure the future of one of the UK’s most treasured food festivals.”
For the full programme and tickets, visit www.ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk
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