Business France opens nominations for the 2026 French Champion Awards
Business France has recently opened nominations for the 2026 French Champion Awards, celebrating the Irish retailers, importers, restaurants and industry professionals bringing the very best of French food and wine to tables across Ireland.
The French Champion Awards recognise those whose passion, expertise and commitment help French food and wine flourish across Ireland
The winners will be announced at Délicieux, the French Food & Wine Day 2026, Business France Ireland’s flagship trade showcase, taking place on 8 October 2026 at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin.
Celebrating Ireland’s champions of French gastronomy
From neighbourhood delicatessens and independent wine merchants to leading importers, supermarkets and restaurants, Irish businesses play a vital role in championing French produce.
The French Champion Awards recognise those whose passion, expertise and commitment help French food and wine flourish across Ireland.
Trade professionals are invited to nominate up to three companies or individuals in each of the following categories:
- Best Supermarket for French Produce
- Best Wine Shop for French Wines
- Best Delicatessen for French Produce
- Best Wine Importer for French Wines
- Best Food Importer for French Produce
- Best Restaurant for French Cuisine
- Once nominations close, a panel of judges from the French Embassy and its partners will select the 2026 French Champions, with the winners revealed during the awards ceremony at Délicieux on 8 October.
Pauline Gauthier, head of Food & Drink at Business France Ireland shares: “The French Champion Awards celebrate the Irish businesses and professionals whose dedication and expertise play a key role in bringing French food and wine to a wider audience across Ireland.
“Each year, we honour those who go above and beyond to champion French products, celebrating their achievements at Délicieux, the French Food & Wine Day.”
Following the success of its inaugural edition, Délicieux, the French Food & Wine Day returns this October, bringing together 33 French food and wine producers for a one-day showcase designed exclusively for the Irish trade.
Henry Anderson, managing director of Bacchus Vinos, said: “Business France does trade events very well. We’ve been fan of its French food and wine showcases for over 25 years.
“They’ve become a fixture in our calendar, where we discover exclusive wines and exciting producers who continue to inspire our portfolio. Not to be missed!”
Buyers and industry professionals will have the opportunity to discover new products, meet producers from across France and explore fresh business opportunities with companies looking to develop their presence in Ireland.
John O’Donoghue, Buying & Commercial manager at Odaios, adds: “Délicieux is an opportunity to discover some of the best of French produce, right on our doorstep.”
The event is exclusively reserved for members of the Irish food and wine trade, with registrations subject to approval by the Business France Ireland team.
Cast your votes here.
