AIC Dinner & Conference 2026: Black-Tie Dinner Preview
With just over a month to go, anticipation is building for the AIC Dinner & Conference 2026, taking place on 10-11 November at the Holiday Inn West in Peterborough. As registrations continue to grow, we're shining a spotlight on one of the most popular elements of the programme: the Black-Tie Dinner on the evening of 10 November.
Why not book a table or individual places via the booking link here.
An Evening of Networking, Insight and Inspiration
The AIC Dinner welcomes more than 200 delegates from across the agricultural supply industry, creating a unique opportunity to connect with senior leaders, policymakers, industry experts and the next generation of talent shaping the future of our sector.
With 87% of delegates holding board-level, director or senior management roles, the dinner provides unrivalled opportunities to build connections, exchange ideas and discuss the issues that matter most to the industry.
We are also pleased to welcome students, apprentices and early-career professionals through AIC's Next Generation programme, helping to connect emerging talent with established industry leaders and strengthen the sector's future workforce.
John Kelley, AIC Chief Operating Officer, said:
"The AIC Dinner & Conference is a fantastic opportunity for the next generation to engage with our industry, learn from experienced professionals and build valuable networks that will support their future careers."
Pre-Dinner Speaker
Before dinner, delegates will hear from Jo Webb, Business Development Manager at the Addington Fund, AIC's conference charity partner. Jo will provide an insight into the charity's vital work supporting farming families and rural communities across the UK, highlighting the difference the organisation makes during times of hardship and change.
After-Dinner Speaker
We are delighted to welcome The Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP, Chair of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee, as our after-dinner speaker. One of Westminster's most experienced voices on agricultural and rural policy, he will share his perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing UK agriculture and its supply chains, providing valuable insight for delegates as the sector navigates a changing political and economic landscape.
Why Attend the Dinner?
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Network with senior industry leaders, policymakers and influential stakeholders.
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Gain fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the supply chain.
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Meet future talent through AIC's Next Generation programme.
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Enjoy an evening of excellent food, conversation and professional networking.
Whether you are attending the full conference or joining us for the dinner alone, this is a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues and peers from across the UK.
This year’s theme, “Delivering for the Agri-Food Supply Chain in an Ever-Changing World”, will bring together thought leaders from politics, business, academia and trade. The programme will explore how the sector can adapt and thrive amid shifting global dynamics.
We’re proud to support the the Addington Fund, this year’s charity partner. The event is kindly supported by US Soybean Export Council (USSEC), Kiwa UK, RDP Communications, Eden Search, Sustainable Foods 2027, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Fund and UK Agri-Tech Centre. This year's charity partner is the Addington Fund.
Reserve Your Place
Tickets for both the dinner and the conference are still available, but spaces are limited. Early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Don't miss your chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of the agri-food sector.
Click below to find out more and book tickets.
Author
Wendy Ford
Wendy Ford is Communications Manager at AIC, creating and overseeing the content published on AIC's website, emails, Member briefings, print publications, and social media.
