Over 160 producers, hospitality businesses, retailers, academics and food sector professionals from across the South West united last week for the inaugural Gather summit, a landmark one-day event spearheaded by Food Drink Devon in collaboration with the University of Exeter.
Held at The Forum, University of Exeter, on Wednesday 11th June, the summit delivered a powerful day of insight and inspiration for the region’s vibrant food and drink community. An impressive line-up of keynote speakers including David Edwards from the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Toby Buckland and Claire Burnet, co-founder of premium chocolate brand Chococo, were joined by expert-led workshops covering everything from marketing and branding to sustainability, innovation and business growth.
Greg Parsons, Chair of Food Drink Devon, said about Gather: “We were genuinely thrilled with the response to Gather, both the fantastic uptake and also the overwhelmingly positive feedback we’ve received. At a time when food and drink producers and hospitality businesses face challenges on so many fronts, it was heartening to see such strong engagement. The event’s themes clearly resonated and sparked meaningful conversations in the room and beyond.”
Greg added: “It was a brilliant summit, with delegates travelling from across Devon and neighbouring counties including Somerset, Dorset and Cornwall. We’re proud to have created an event that brings people together to connect, share ideas and look ahead.”
The event not only provided valuable knowledge-sharing opportunities but also strengthened the region’s food and drink network through informal networking and a producer showcase featuring some of the best food and drink the South West has to offer.
Professor Harry G West, who leads Exeter Food, the University Research Network connecting academics and stakeholders across the food sector, commented: “It was great to see so many people with a stake in the food system in the South West of England come together to exchange ideas and information. We have such a vibrant food sector in the region, making such great food. Food is the lifeblood of this region’s economy. The University is really keen to continue supporting these people to make healthy, sustainable and affordable food. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Food Drink Devon to make Gather an annual event.”
Exeter Food brings together researchers from across the University and connects them with policymakers, industry leaders, third sector organizations, the media, and other stakeholders in the search for a better understanding of food-related issues in our world today.
Supported by Buddy Creative and growth specialists Maia Growth, the success of the first Gather Summit signals a bright future for the event, with plans already underway to make it a key fixture in the South West’s food and drink calendar.
For further information about ‘Gather’ visit fooddrinkdevon.co.uk/gather-event
Image Credits: Nick Hook
