As the Australia–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UK FTA) nears its third year, Australian exports in categories including red meat, wine, seafood, and spirits are continuing to build a steady presence in the UK market.

To mark this occasion and coincide with HRC London, the UK’s leading trade event for hospitality and food service at London’s Excel, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), in partnership with Aussie Beef & Lamb, held an exclusive evening event at Australia House.

Australia House’s lavish ‘Exhibition Hall’ buzzed with energetic conversations surrounding the grand columns made of marble from all over Australia. Amongst the invited guests were producers, chefs, and industry leaders, celebrating quality, provenance, and innovation in everything from wood-fired coffee to braised beef short rib.

British chef, restaurateur, and television presenter Mike Reid, who splits his time between Australia and the UK, was the perfect candidate to curate an all-Australian tasting menu highlighting the breadth of the country’s produce, including premium red meat, seafood, and wines.

Reid on food and travel A brief chat with Reid began with his frequently traveled status and moved on to the exceptional menu we were experiencing, comprising Spencer Gulf Kingfish Crudo and Prawn Crostini to Western Australian Octopus and Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder.

“It’s a journey through Australia showcasing beef and lamb, prawn, fish, and octopus. I’m thrilled to share this piece of Australia here at such an iconic venue,” said Reid.

Having previously attended an Aussie Wagyu masterclass last year, I had firsthand knowledge of this high-quality product and was especially looking forward to the Mini Wagyu Beef sliders. Australian Wagyu Beef is becoming a phenomenon witnessing significant growth in the UK and worldwide.

To complement this, guests enjoyed House of Arras Brut Elite Cuvee 1601 upon arrival, before savoring Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc and Margaret River Chardonnay white wines, followed by Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon and Hill and Valley Shiraz red wines.

Upholding longstanding connections Richard Sanders, Aussie Beef & Lamb’s UK/EU Country Manager, stated, “With the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement entering its third year, the evening served as a timely opportunity to explore the evolving trade relationship between our two countries, which already share a rich history in agriculture, food, and hospitality.

“Attendees received firsthand insights on how the new trade landscape is crafting opportunities in the UK market while connecting with distributors, chefs, and retail operators driving demand.

“With strong historical ties between the two industries and renewed momentum under the FTA, the evening inspired valuable discussions, fresh insights, and a gathering of individuals shaping the future of the UK meat and hospitality trade.”