Paris, France – May 11, 2026 – Worldchefs and Nestlé Professional are delighted to announce that Nestlé Professional will once again serve as the official partner of the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum (BGF) at the Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026, taking place 16–19 May 2026 in Newport, Wales.
This marks the sixth consecutive year of the partnership. Since the passing of Dr. Bill Gallagher in 2016, Nestlé Professional has proudly supported the continuation of his vision, playing a key role in the skill development and global opportunities available to the next generation of culinary professionals.
The Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum is a dedicated program for chefs under 25, integrated into every Worldchefs Congress & Expo since its founding in 2012. It provides young talent with tailored networking, masterclasses, workshops, and direct exposure to international industry leaders.
“Nestlé Professional has been an instrumental partner in the development of the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum and past Congresses,” said Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs president. “Their support for skills workshops, expert speakers, and interactive programs continues to empower the future of our industry. We thank Nestlé Professional for supporting the ongoing legacy of our dear friend Dr. Bill Gallagher.”
A Legacy of Mentorship
Dr. Bill Gallagher, known as the “Chef of Chefs,” dedicated his life to mentoring young chefs. The former Worldchefs President (1996–2000) and long-time leader of the South African Chefs Association believed passionately in giving emerging talent hands-on training, guidance, and real career opportunities.
Nestlé Professional’s involvement brings this legacy to life. At the 2026 event under the theme “Pasture, Passion, Plate”, the company will support young chefs in sustainability, responsible sourcing, and creative plate excellence — areas critical to the future of professional kitchens.
“Young chefs are the future of food service,” said Reinhold Jakobi, SVP and Head of Nestlé Professional’s Strategic Business Unit. “By powering the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, we help them gain practical skills, global insights, and meaningful connections. This sponsorship aligns perfectly with our purpose: creating shared value by developing the sustainable culinary leaders of tomorrow.”
Beyond the Forum, Nestlé Professional demonstrates its commitment through programs such as the Worldchefs Academy, YOCUTA (Young Culinary Talents), the Nestlé Professional Green Spatula Award for sustainability in culinary competitions, and International Chefs Day initiatives.
The partnership strengthens ties between Nestlé Professional and the global chef community, building long-term credibility and authentic relationships with tomorrow’s decision-makers in hotels, restaurants, and food service operations.
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About Nestlé Professional
Nestlé Professional is the dedicated food service division of Nestlé, providing high-quality products, solutions, and expertise to help food service operators succeed.
About Worldchefs
The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.
Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.
Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:
- Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skills in hospitality;
- Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
- Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
- Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
Visit www.worldchefs.org to learn more.
Media Contact
Worldchefs
Olivia Ruszczyk
Email: communications@worldchefs.org
