Celebrating the business of food at the Bradford Chamber Annual Dinner

The Business of Food was the theme as Bradford Chamber of Commerce celebrated its Annual Dinner by marking its status as the UK’s food and drink capital.

Held at the city’s Cedar Court Hotel, more than 150 people from all walks of commercial life in the city were in attendance.

Hosted by BBC journalist Sabbiyah Pervez, the event heard from several leaders of the food and drink industry in Bradford including Younis Chaudhy, Zulfi Karim, Allan Wilkinson, David Kerfoot, Isabel Gordon and Shezad Gordon.

For the first time in decades, the formal black tie was dropped in favour of business casual.

Mark Cowgill, president of Bradford Chamber, said: “It was a great honour for me to be elected as President of the Chamber. I have been involved in business in this city for many years and am passionate about this city, its economy and, of course, its people.

“In just a few short months, Bradford will become UK City of Culture, an massive endorsement of this city’s values, standing and importance. The excitement is mounting across the district as we prepare to take centre stage for the year. Tonight, we will hear from Shanaz Gulzar from the Bradford 2025 team and, as the BD25 branding begins to spread around the district, it really does feel like the party is about to begin.

“Bradford is a proud and resilient city. Its people and its business leaders will ensure that we come out of this period of uncertainty better and stronger than ever.”

The event also heard from Craig McHugh of One in a Million, the Chamber’s chosen charity for the year.