Our members
Our members play a vital role in the foodservice sector, helping organisations operate safely, efficiently and sustainably. From hospitality and healthcare to education and retail, FEA brings the industry together to share knowledge, raise standards and support long-term success.
Our membership remit encompasses the full spectrum of foodservice equipment manufacturers and importers, distributors of light and heavy equipment, and service providers. We also represent a wide range of business services members including HR support, leasing, marketing, PR, sales, finance and design agencies.
Our industry. Our impact.
88 yrs
A proud legacy of championing the foodservice equipment industry
180+
Members united to represent and strengthen the foodservice equipment industry
£998M
The value of the UK commercial catering equipment market
What we do
FEA exists to support its members and strengthen the foodservice equipment industry as a whole. We provide a collective voice on the issues that matter most, working closely with government, regulators and industry partners to influence policy, standards and best practice.
We help businesses navigate change, stay informed and make confident decisions. By connecting members, sharing insight and championing collaboration, we create an environment where the industry can grow and innovate together.
What is a trade association?
A trade association is a body representing organisations within the same sector. Its purpose is to protect the collective interests of member organisations, particularly in negotiations with governments and regulatory bodies.
As the Foodservice Equipment Association, we represent organisations and businesses across fourteen foodservice equipment product categories. It is our duty to protect our members’ collective interests, speak with a single voice to policymakers and opinion formers, and ensure the industry is heard where it counts.
How joining FEA benefits your business
There are five core ways in which FEA membership delivers value:
1. We represent your interests
We actively represent your interests on key industry issues and seek to create a more favourable climate for the foodservice equipment industry in the UK, Europe and globally.
2. We lead on sector thinking
FEA leads on sector thinking, standard setting, building proactive policies and developing long-term strategic plans that incorporate practical solutions and greater transparency. We help identify emerging issues and develop solutions before they become problems.
3. We connect you to government
As the leading foodservice equipment trade association, FEA provides the most effective route for establishing communication between government and our sector.
4. We support your business growth
The business support our members receive aids growth and helps them meet the challenges of today’s industry environment more effectively.
5. We enhance your reputation
Membership of the industry’s leading association is widely recognised as a badge of quality, enhancing credibility with customers, partners and stakeholders.
Interested in becoming a member of FEA?
Membership starts from £157.08 / month (excl. VAT)
A stronger voice, together
Trade associations play a crucial role in representing industry interests and supporting professional communities. As a member of FEA, businesses gain access to guidance, expertise and representation that would be difficult to achieve alone.
Membership demonstrates credibility and commitment to industry standards, helping build trust with customers, partners and stakeholders. It also offers opportunities to contribute to discussions that shape the future of the foodservice equipment sector, ensuring member voices are heard where it counts.
Our history
FEA has been supporting the industry for more than 85 years. Founded in 1938 as the Catering Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA), the organisation was created to bring manufacturers together and strengthen their collective influence.
Over time, FEA evolved alongside the industry. The association expanded to include importers and service providers, merged with complementary organisations and adapted to the changing needs of the market. In 2019, the association became the Foodservice Equipment Association, reflecting a broader, more inclusive membership while staying true to its original purpose.
| 2026 | FEA is first to launch a dedicated platform for hosting, comparing and working with equipment carbon footprint data. The Foodservice Carbon Gateway. |
| 2024 | CFSP course surpasses 800 accredited delegates across the UK, Europe and the UAE. |
| 2019 | CESA changes it’s name to becomes the Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA), broadening its appeal and solidifying its position as the leading foodservice trade association. |
| 2018 | CFSP course surpasses 500 accredited delegates. |
| 2017 | The team expands and CESA moves to Rotherwick House, St Katharine Docks, London. |
| 2009 | CESA launches the Certified Food Service Professional (CFSP) qualification. |
| 2003 | First CESA Code of Practice published, covering manufacture, supply, installation and after-sales service standards. |
| 2002 | CESA merger with the Catering Utensils Association (CUA) and first conference with the FCSI, building collaborative relationships across the industry. |
| 1985 | CE Marking introduced conformity for health, safety and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area. |
| 1974 | The Catering Equipment Importers Association (CEIA) was formed, opening the UK market to overseas players. |
| 1969 | CEMA was a key force in founding the European Federation of Catering Equipment Manufacturers (EFCEM), comprising national associations across several European countries. |
| 1938 | Twelve leading UK companies founded the Catering Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA), recognising the need for the industry to speak with a single voice to policymakers. |
FAQs
Take a look at our pricing structure to see what membership is right for you.
No. Our membership spans independent specialists through to global manufacturers, and Associate membership is open to businesses that supply and support the sector. There is a category that fits your business whatever its size.
Yes. We welcome individuals at all stages of their career. Joining is a great way to build industry knowledge, make connections and access learning opportunities as you get started.
also of interest
Find a member
Find trusted foodservice equipment suppliers, service providers and industry specialists across the UK and beyond.
Find a course
Industry-led training, certification and professional development for skills, compliance and career progression.
Want to join?
Joining FEA is straightforward. Complete the application to become part of the UK’s leading foodservice equipment community.