Conference Programme

NEW FOR 2025!

We're bringing the industry together at the Great British Beer Festival for a brand-new Trade Event, designed to spark conversation, share insight, and celebrate innovation across the beer and brewing world.

Expect thought-provoking talks, expert panels and plenty of networking opportunities - right in the heart of the UK’s biggest beer festival.

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Conference Format Overview

Our event opens and closes with sessions on the Main Stage in Hall 1, bringing all attendees together for inspiring keynote talks, the Champion Beer of Britain announcement, and the CAMRA Homebrew Competition awards.

Between these highlights, the conference continues in the Piazza Suites, featuring three dedicated content tracks, each focused on key topics shaping the industry.

Each track includes three sessions running concurrently, allowing you to customise your day by attending the discussions most relevant to your interests. Whether you're here to learn, connect, or be inspired, our programme offers something for everyone.

Keynote Opening - Hall 1, Main Stage
Track 1 - Piazza Suite 3
Track 2 - Piazza Suite 6
Track 3 - Piazza Suite 7
Tapping into the Low & No Alcohol Revolution
David vs Goliath: How the Indie Beer campaign is fighting back for small brewers
Breaking Barriers: The Access to Market Review
Consumer Trends in a Changing Economy: Adapting to Changing Consumer Behaviours
Keep Cask Alive hosted by Jonny Garrett
CAMRA awards explained: how does the consumer's champion decide pub, club and beer awards?
What Buyers Want: Securing Shelf Space & Tap Listings
Brewing a Greener Future: Sustainability & Reducing Environmental Impact
Become a Beer Sommelier
Champion Beer of Britain Competition Results Announced - Hall 1, Main Stage

Opening Session - Hall 1, Main Stage

Keynote Opening

Main Stage - Hall 1

Session 1

Breaking Barriers: The Access to Market Review

This year, the Department for Business and Trade has been carrying out a review of access to market for brewers. We bring together two trade associations to talk about the review and consumer choice in pubs.

Our Speakers

Emma McClarkin

Emma McClarkin

(BBPA)

Speaker
Andy Slee

Andy Slee

(SIBA)

Speaker

David vs Goliath: How the Indie Beer campaign is fighting back for small brewers

The Indie Beer campaign, launched in late 2024, is helping drinkers identify truly independent breweries amid growing confusion caused by global buyouts of 'craft' brands. With a website to check a brewery’s indie status and strong social media presence, the campaign is gaining serious traction. A YouGov survey in early 2025 found that 31% of Gen Z beer drinkers could already recognise the Indie Beer initiative — a major success just six months in. Now, campaigner Neil Walker shares what’s next, and how CAMRA members can support the fight for independent beer.

Our Speakers

Neil Walker

Neil Walker

(SIBA)

Speaker

Tapping into the Low & No Alcohol Revolution

The demand for low- and no-alcohol beer is soaring, driven by health-conscious consumers and changing drinking habits. This session will delve into the rapid growth of the No & Lo sector, the latest brewing innovations, and what it takes to succeed in this evolving market. Industry experts will discuss consumer trends, branding strategies, and the challenges of brewing high-quality, full-flavoured low-alcohol options.

Our Speakers

Alix Blease

Alix Blease

(Lallemand Brewing)

Speaker
Ben Gibbs

Ben Gibbs

(Sober Boozers Club)

Speaker
Stephen Liven

Stephen Liven

(BBPA)

Speaker

Session 2

CAMRA awards explained: how does the consumer's champion decide pub, club and beer awards?

Ever wondered how pubs, social clubs and beers end up winning CAMRA's flagship awards? Come along to find out how your pub or beer gets entered into competitions, what the judging rounds look like, and hear from some of recent big winners about their experiences.

Consumer Trends in a Changing Economy: Adapting to Changing Consumer Behaviours

Economic pressures are reshaping consumer behavior, influencing how, where and what people drink. This session will uncover the impact of inflation, rising costs and shifting social trends on beer sales, from on-trade vs. off-trade preferences to premiumization and value-driven purchasing. Industry experts will share insights on evolving consumer expectations and strategies for breweries, pubs and retailers to stay ahead in a challenging market. Gain valuable perspectives on adapting pricing, marketing and product offerings to meet the needs of today’s cost-conscious yet experience-driven consumers.

Our Speakers

Kate Nicholls OBE

Kate Nicholls OBE

(UKHospitality)

Speaker
Reuben Pullan

Reuben Pullan

(CGA by NIQ)

Speaker
James Buchanan

James Buchanan

(Thornbridge Brewery)

Speaker

Keep Cask Alive hosted by Jonny Garrett

Craft Beer Channel launches a new campaign to get cask beer the protection it deserves from the UK Government – and eventually UNESCO. Run by Jonny Garrett, producer of 'Keep Cask Alive' and Chair of the Guild of Beer Writers, this will also take a look at cask, its importance and relevance today.

Our Speakers

Jonny Garrett

Jonny Garrett

(Craft Beer Channel)

Speaker

Session 3

Become a Beer Sommelier

Discover what it means to be a Beer Sommelier in this insightful session led by Annabel Smith, founding member of the newly launched Guild of Beer Sommeliers. Learn about the training, assessment process, and business benefits of this respected accreditation. Hear from a newly qualified Sommelier and explore how the Guild supports members with resources, networking, and PR.

Our Speakers

Annabel Smith

Annabel Smith

(BeerBelle)

Speaker

Brewing a Greener Future: Sustainability & Reducing Environmental Impact

Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s essential for the future of brewing. This session will highlight the latest innovations and best practices for reducing the environmental impact of beer production, from energy efficiency and water conservation to sustainable sourcing and waste reduction. Industry leaders will share insights on meeting consumer expectations, navigating regulatory requirements and implementing cost-effective green initiatives.

Our Speakers

Fergus Fitzgerald

Fergus Fitzgerald

(Adnams)

Speaker

Speaker TBC

Speaker

Speaker TBC

Speaker

What Buyers Want: Securing Shelf Space & Tap Listings

With an ever-expanding beer market, standing out to buyers is more challenging than ever. This session will provide valuable insights from industry buyers across retail, hospitality and distribution on what they look for when selecting new products. From packaging and pricing to sustainability and consumer demand, learn what drives purchasing decisions and how to position your beer for success.

Our Speakers

Neil Walker

Neil Walker

(SIBA)

Speaker
Quinn Leatherbarrow-Stokes

Quinn Leatherbarrow-Stokes

(QWERTY Beer Box)

Speaker

Speaker TBC

Speaker

Closing Session - Hall 1, Main Stage

Champion Beer of Britain Competition Results Announced

Hall 1 - Main Stage

Join CAMRA Today!

Join CAMRA today to make great savings, and champion great beer and pubs all year round! As a member, enjoy discounted ticket rates to the Great British Beer Festival, as well as free or discounted entry to a further 180 beer festivals nationwide.

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