Good Food Economy
The Good Food Economy is dedicated to building a diverse and vibrant food economy that treats producers, customers, workers and nature well.
A Resilient, Thriving Local Economy
At ShefFood, we believe that making good food a defining feature of Sheffield starts with a thriving, sustainable food economy. From farmers and producers to retailers and caterers, local food businesses play a vital role in shaping a healthier, more resilient city.
By placing good food entrepreneurs at the heart of economic development and championing them to consumers, we make it easier for people to choose fresh, sustainable, and ethical food. In turn, this approach creates jobs, supports independent businesses, and helps regenerate high streets and city centres—ensuring that good food benefits everyone in Sheffield.
Latest News & Events
Mapping Sheffield’s Growing Future
Sheffield is a city known for its greenery. From parks and woodlands to community gardens and allotments, opportunities to grow food are all around…
McDonald’s Tries Again: Drive-Thru Plans Resubmitted for Lowfield
Despite withdrawing their original application earlier this year, McDonald’s has once again submitted plans for a drive-thru restaurant on land north-west of London Road…
What the Government’s New National Food Strategy Could Mean for Sheffield
In July 2025, the UK Government launched a major update to its National Food Strategy, setting out a long-term vision for a healthier, more…
Sheffield Community Land Trust: Why Local Ownership Matters
When it comes to questions of who owns the land, who gets to shape a neighbourhood, and who can afford to stay in the…
Future of ShefFood: Review July 2025
The ShefFood Steering Group has recently commissioned an independent report to explore the future governance, structure, and long-term sustainability of ShefFood. This vital piece…
In Bloom and in Business
If you’ve ever stopped to smell the roses, chances are those roses have come a long way. In fact, over 80% of flowers sold…
Good Food Economy Map
See suppliers across the UK that can be contacted about local food supply. This map was created in collaboration with the University of Sheffield & CLES – The Centre for Local Economic Strategies. See a full list of suppliers here.
Resources
The group believes in the power of partnerships and collaborations to achieve our goals, which is why we invite individuals and organisations ranging from community and commercial growers to academics, policymakers, schools and everyone in between and beyond to join us!
Economic Successes in Sheffield So Far…
While our goal is about moving forward, it’s also important to celebrate the fantastic work that has been achieved so far in the sphere of a good food economy and food system in Sheffield.
- UNICUS, Sheffield Hallam University, and Sheffield College are pioneering local food procurement and working to ensure that sustainability is a central concern.
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and Taylor Shaw are increasing the number of vegetarian meals available in hospitals and schools, responsibly sourcing fish and using less but higher-quality meat.
- Caterers in hospitals, universities, colleges and schools in the city are working together to develop procurement strategies to support local food with the help of ShefFood.
- Sheffood’s Good Food Economy and Procurement Working Group has expanded to include passionate catering managers collectively responsible for over 120,000 meals a week and key business leaders in Sheffield.
- Sheffield has an abundance of independent cafes, restaurants and food businesses, many of whom have been nationally recognised for their outstanding food and sustainability principles.
The Good Food Economy Working Group
The group brings together local food producers, food retailers, the hospitality industry, the city council and researchers to work together for a good food economy for Sheffield.
The group’s current priorities are developing a recognisable local ‘brand’ for sustainable food which connects local producers with businesses and hospitality for consumers and working together to build the collective infrastructure for procurement and distribution.
We invite anyone who shares this vision to get in touch. Use the form below or email the team at ku.gro.dooffehs@ofni
