The Coventry & Warwickshire Food & Drink Network
The Coventry & Warwickshire Food & Drink Network is a collaboration between Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council aimed at helping businesses in this sector to connect, collaborate and grow as well as stay up to date with any funding and support opportunities available.
The January network event took place at Fat Bobs, at The Blue Lias in Long Itchington. The venue has recently been transformed into a family‑friendly, transport‑themed destination attracting a strong community and enthusiasts following. Topics at this event included the latest on Food Standard Regs, the new Farmfest event, an update on recruitment and skills support and a round robin of current opportunities and issues from businesses.
The next event will take place as follows:
Date and time: Wednesday 22 April 2026, 9.30am - 11.30am.
Venue: Elle’s, Ground Floor, Two Friargate, Station Square, Coventry, CV1 2FP.
Overview
An in-person networking event for Coventry & Warwickshire hospitality, food, and drink producers. Hosted by Elle’s Food Hall Coventry – a social dining space where six independent kitchens and a boutique bar come together under one roof.
Event agenda
- 9.30am – 10am: Arrival, coffee, and networking
- 10am: Presentations begin:
- Elle's Coventry, The Concept - Ryan Salter, Sales & Events Manager
- Economic forecast– Corin Crane, CW Chamber
- Speed Networking - Make new professional connections
- 11.20am: Optional tour and networking
- 11.30am: Close
After the presentations, enjoy a tour of Elle's and meet the local vendors. Businesses are welcome to bring flyers or samples to share. The train station is a one minute walk and there is payable car parking around the area. Directions will be sent out prior to the event.
Why attend?
- Gain practical insights to boost your business
- Hear directly from local producers and hospitality businesses
- Share challenges and opportunities with peers
Who should attend?
Open to businesses serving or producing food, drink, and hospitality within Coventry & Warwickshire. Places are limited and booking is required.
Booking and contacts
- Cost: Free
- Registration: Required via Eventbrite
- For enquiries:
- Coventry Businesses please email: business@coventry.gov.uk
- Warwickshire Businesses please email: tourism@warwickshire.gov.uk
Book your place via Eventbrite
Future Dates
- Wednesday 8 July 2026 – Warwickshire Venue TBC
- Wednesday 7 October 2026 – Coventry Venue TBC
Organised by Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council as part of the Coventry & Warwickshire Food & Drink Producers Network.
More dates for your diary:
22 – 24 May 2026
The Great British Farm-Fest, NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire
The festival is designed to be a celebration of British farming and rural life, held at the historic former home of the Royal Show. Its is being organised by private operators and includes a range of celebrities and camping.
Find information on exhibitor opportunities
Saturday 6 June 2026
This show is centred around championing farming, agriculture, food and rural life across Warwickshire.
The show has a range of trade stand areas for local businesses and a new Food Hall for local produce.
