The coronavirus crisis has brought out the very best in the foodservice and hospitality industry. Already known for its resilience and flexibility, the sector has responded to the obliteration of ‘business as usual’ by reinventing entire business models in the space of weeks or even days.

Pubs and restaurants have transformed themselves into takeaways. Fast-food chains have become suppliers of food to key workers. Wholesalers and producers have morphed into home delivery companies in an effort to find a home for surplus product.

These remarkable efforts have been made possible by people – not just the bosses calling the shots but regular employees going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure people are fed and jobs are saved.

In a new feature, Footprint will profile the sector’s Hidden Heroes who are performing critical roles away from the limelight to support the national effort – from the lorry driver delivering vital food supplies to hospitals, to the IT programmer working dawn ‘til dusk to update websites, to the volunteers ensuring vulnerable people receive the food they need.

We want to hear from big companies and small companies; from food and drink suppliers and packaging distributors; from charities and community groups and everyone in between.

Nominate your Hidden Heroes by emailing us at editorial@footprint.digital and we will profile as many as we can in the weeks ahead.