Exeter to host Gather 2026 as industry leaders tackle change and opportunity

Gather 2026 returns on Wednesday 10th June 2026 at The Forum, University of Exeter, bringing together the Southwest’s most exciting producers, founders, hospitality leaders and industry change-makers for a high-energy day of insight, inspiration and connection.

Now in its second year, the Southwest Food and Drink Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry, as businesses across the region continue to navigate economic uncertainty, global pressures and shifting consumer expectations, while also responding to new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and growth.

As the region’s leading forum for connection and knowledge-sharing, Gather is where the future of the Southwest’s food and drink sector takes shape, helping businesses adapt, evolve and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. 

Amanda Ringelberg, an ambassador for Food Drink Devon comments: “The ongoing global conflicts continue to place enormous pressure on the food and drink industry, with rising energy, freight and raw material costs creating significant challenges across the supply chain”.

Amanda continues: “Despite this, businesses within our sector continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience, innovation and adaptability in order to maintain supply, protect jobs and support both local and international markets. Against this backdrop, Gather provides a space for practical discussion, shared learning and forward-thinking solutions”.

Spearheaded by Food Drink Devon in collaboration with the University of Exeter, Gather, gives producers, retailers, hospitality operators, suppliers and industry professionals the opportunity to deepen knowledge, build meaningful connections and gain strategies to strengthen and future-proof businesses.   

This year’s programme will focus on key themes including scaling production, routes to market, sustainability, branding and changing consumer behaviour.  Throughout the day, delegates can take part in 15 expert-led panel sessions, selecting three that best suit their interests and business needs. Alongside these, there will be practical workshops and thought-provoking discussions designed to deliver clear, actionable insights. Topics include business growth and scaling production, routes to market and finance, sustainability and regenerative practices, technology and innovation and others.

This year’s keynote programme will be hosted by BBC Two Gardeners' World and BBC Radio Devon presenter, Toby Buckland, and will feature leading voices from across the food, drink and hospitality sectors, including Tony Greenham from the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission, James Williams of the Rosewood Hotel Group and Will Little, co-founder of Little’s Coffee, who will share their experience and insights with delegates.

Alongside the main sessions, attendees can explore exhibitor showcases featuring innovative products, services and suppliers from across the region.
Gather 2026 has been curated by Food Drink Devon and University of Exeter, with support from Maia Growth, Buddy Creative, Bishop Fleming, Devon Food Partnership, Stephens & Scown and Clockwork Marketing.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gatherfoodsummit.co.uk and cost £50.75 for Food Drink Devon and Exeter Food members or £60.75 for general tickets.  The ticket price includes access to all sessions, lunch and refreshments from Little’s Coffee. Gather runs from  9.15am to 4.30pm with optional networking until 6.00pm. 

For more information about Gather visit gathersouthwest.org.