Gather 2026 is back — and it’s bigger, bolder and bursting with ideas. Returning for its second year, the Southwest Food & Drink Summit brings together the region’s most exciting producers, founders, hospitality leaders and change makers for a powerful day of insight, inspiration and connection.
Taking place on Wednesday 10 June 2026 at The Forum, University of Exeter, Gather is where the future of food and drink in the Southwest takes shape. If you’re looking to grow your business, sharpen your thinking and connect with the people shaping the sector, this is the room to be in.
Expect a vibrant, high energy day packed with 15 expert led panel sessions, practical takeaways and meaningful conversations. You’ll choose the sessions most relevant to you — spanning growth, routes to market, finance, sustainability, technology, people and resilience — all designed to deliver ideas you can put straight into action.
You’ll hear from inspiring keynote speakers, hosted by Toby Buckland, including:
• James Williams, Global Director at Rosewood Hotel Group
• Will Little, Managing Director & Owner of Littles Coffee & Roastworks
• Tony Greenham, Chief Impact Officer at the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission
Between sessions, explore exhibitor showcases, discover new products and services, and connect with peers from across the Southwest’s thriving food and drink community. With lunch and refreshments included — and an optional drinks reception to round off the day — Gather makes it easy to build lasting relationships.
Gather is designed for producers, makers, hospitality operators, retailers, wholesalers, founders, startups and sector professionals — whether you’re scaling up, diversifying or strengthening your business for the future.
Tickets are selling fast, with discounted rates available for members of Food Drink Devon, the University of Exeter and Devon Food Partnership. Buy tickets here.
One day. One place. Endless ideas. Gather 2026 is not just an event — it’s where the Southwest’s food and drink community comes together to move forward.
For further information gathersouthwest.org
