Torbay Business Forum at Paignton Zoo

Breakfast, Business & Net-Walking

📅 Tuesday 7th July
📍 Paignton Zoo Environmental Park
⏰ 8:00am – 9:30am (with optional Net-Walking until approximately 10:30/11am)
🎟 £17.50 per person inc parking

Join us for a very special Torbay Business Forum as we take our popular networking breakfast to one of the South West's most iconic attractions – Paignton Zoo.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast on arrival, connect with fellow businesses from across the Bay and hear first-hand about the exciting developments taking place at the zoo as it enters a new chapter under new ownership and leadership.

Guest Speakers

Steven van den Heuvel

Transition Manager – Paignton Zoo & Newquay Zoo

Steven joined Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo in early 2026 following their acquisition by Libema. Having worked within the Libema family for more than a decade, Steven brings extensive zoological and operational expertise, having held senior roles across multiple zoos and wildlife attractions throughout Europe.

Ashley Gillam

General Manager – Paignton Zoo & Newquay Zoo

Ashley brings more than 25 years of experience across zoos and major leisure attractions. As the newly appointed General Manager, Ashley will share his vision for the future of both zoos and discuss how the organisation is building on its strong foundations for the years ahead.

What You'll Hear

Steven and Ashley will provide an exclusive update on:

• Exciting developments taking place across the zoo ahead of the summer season
• New animal arrivals
• Improvements and redesign of the visitor experience
• Investment plans and future developments
• The vision for Paignton Zoo under its new ownership and leadership

This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the team shaping one of the region's most important visitor attractions.

Net-Walking with Wollens

Following the speaker session, attendees are invited to stay and enjoy our optional Net-Walking experience around the zoo until approximately 10:30/11am (however there is no rush to leave).

Kindly supported by Wollens Solicitors, simply collect a takeaway tea or coffee in your branded Wollens cup before departing the restaurant and enjoy a walk around the zoo whilst continuing conversations and making new connections.

Take Part in the Wollens Net-Walking Challenge!

Take a photo featuring:
☕ Your Wollens cup
🦁 Your favourite animal

Share it on LinkedIn and tag:

• Wollens
• Paignton Zoo
• Torbay Business Forum

The best three entries will receive a prize- follow our TBF socials for more!

Included in Your Ticket

✔ Breakfast on arrival from 8:00am
✔ Networking with businesses from across South Devon
✔ Exclusive update from Paignton Zoo's leadership team
✔ Entry to the optional Net-Walking experience
✔ Free parking at the zoo

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Events like these would not be possible without the support of our valued sponsors.

GOLD Sponsor

Wollens

SILVER Sponsor

Insignia Creative

Their support enables Torbay Business Forum to continue bringing businesses together, creating opportunities for collaboration, inspiration and growth across the Bay.

We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a fascinating morning of business networking and behind-the-scenes insight into one of the South West's most loved attractions.

Any questions- please contact Kelly Widley kwidley@outlook.com