The structure of our inaugural summit in 2025 was shaped by insights from across the sector, and underpinned by pivotal research on public food procurement in the South West – highlighting the economic, environmental, and community potential of localised food systems.
Three keynote speakers wove overarching themes throughout the day, sharing knowledge and inspiring attendees to think bigger, act boldly, and shape a sector that is both resilient and visionary.
Linking into keynote speakers' talks, the summit focused on four key themes: Marketing & Branding, Insight & Innovation, Routes to Market, and Fit to Grow. Within these, three workshops and a panel session brought together a rich diversity of businesses, from local small enterprises to large-scale corporations, sharing practical strategies, challenges, and successes.
David Edwards is Deputy Chief Executive of the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission. He’ll outline the key challenges and opportunities in UK food and farming, how FFCC’s work is shaping government policy, and why smaller, progressive businesses must be heard in a system dominated by big corporations.
Toby Buckland is a gardener, TV presenter, and author, best known for hosting BBC’s Gardeners’ World in 2008 and 2010 and continues to present on the show and BBC2's coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show. He won an RHS Gold and Best in Show for his Ethical Garden in 2008. Toby runs an award-winning festival at Powderham Castle that encomapsses food, plants, art and rural crafts. He is also the 2025 Garden Media Guild gardening columnist of the year and his BBC Radio show on BBC Sounds is the most listened to music, environment and gardening program in the UK. With deep roots in the West Country, Toby will talk about what makes the region special and how local communities and businesses can use this to attract wider interest.
Claire Burnet is the co-founder of Chococo, a multi-award-winning premium chocolate company founded in Dorset in 2002.
In her talk, Claire will share how Chococo has succeeded in a price-driven market by championing quality. Not just in its products, but in the relationships and values behind them, and why quality can still lead in today’s competitive landscape.
Alongside our three Keynote Speakers, delegates chose from 16 practical workshops across four core themes.
