Gather Food & Drink Summit

Join the First-Ever Devon Food & Drink Summit – Gather!

📅 Date: Wednesday, June 11th, 2025.
📍 Location: The Forum, The University of Exeter.

The Southwest’s thriving food and drink community is coming together for an unmissable day of insights, innovation, and inspiration. Whether you’re a producer, entrepreneur, or industry professional, Gather is your opportunity to gain the knowledge, connections, and strategies needed to grow and future-proof your business.

From scaling up production to navigating sustainability, branding, and market trends, this event will address the most significant challenges and opportunities in today’s evolving food and drink sector.

Join us for:

🎤 Keynote Speakers:

• David Edwards (Food, Farming & Countryside Commission):
  On Sustainability – why small, progressive voices matter in shaping the future of UK food and farming.

• Toby Buckland (Gardener & Broadcaster):
  On Provenance – how West Country producers can celebrate locality to build interest and connection.

• Claire Burnet (Co-founder, Chococo):
  On Quality – how a focus on excellence, values, and relationships can drive growth in a price-led market.

📢 Workshops & thought-provoking panel discussionscovering marketing, sales, routes to market, finance, technology, and more.
🤝 Networking with industry leaders, producers, and experts.
🍽️ Food stands & industry specialists showcase the best of Devon.
🥗 Lunch & refreshments are included in your ticket price.

🤝 Optional: Wrap up the day with drinks and informal networking from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, a relaxed opportunity to continue conversations and make new connections.

🚀 Spaces are limited! Visit here to read more about workshops and keynote speakers.

Secure your spot early to avoid missing out!

📷 The brilliant Nick Hook will be capturing photos during the day, including images from each of the workshops.

🍵 Hot refreshments are kindly being supplied by Owens Organic Coffee, and cold drinks by Thirsty Works and Frobishers

Exhibitor Opportunities- NOW SOLD OUT. 

Want to showcase your brand or sample your products?

Exhibitor tickets include:

• Entry to Gather, giving you full access to all sessions and networking opportunities.
• A table and space for a small pop-up banner to promote your brand.
• Exhibition space from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, with the option to remain set up for the evening networking session from 4:30 – 6:00 PM.
• The chance to connect with industry professionals and potential customers.

Please note: Each exhibitor ticket includes entry for one person. Additional team members will need to purchase separate tickets.

A limited number of exhibitor spaces are available—book yours now!

🎟️ Get your tickets today and be part of the future of Southwest’s food and drink industry.

📩 Questions? Contact Kate at events@fooddrinkdevon.co.uk

This event has been curated by Food Drink Devon and The University of Exeter, and is supported by Maia Growth and Buddy Creative, Bishop Fleming, Devon Food Partnership and Clockwork Marketing