SGF Diversity & Inclusion Conference 2026
Now in its second year, the SGF Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Conference continues to support Scotland’s independent retailers towards greater equity, representation, and inclusion.
This year’s SGF Diversity & Inclusion Conference 2026 will take be held from 8:30am on Thurs 23rd April at the Doubletree by Hilton, Edinburgh Airport.
The event will bring together lived experiences, thought leaders, and active allies to share the most relevant, practical, and inspiring ideas for retailers. With a focus on delivering meaningful impact, attendees will gain tools, strategies, and tangible takeaways to help create inclusive environments where colleagues and customers alike feel valued, respected, and heard.
The event is free to attend for all independent retailers, which Booker Wholesale is supporting as Headline Partner. The conference has been created to provide insights, awareness and learnings, coupled with practical advice, tools and take aways for independent retailers to help them embrace a diverse and inclusive culture in their organisations and start to implement impactful change. The real, tangible benefits to businesses that embrace a truly diverse and inclusive culture for their colleagues and customer, will also be shared.
Pete Cheema, CEO of SGF, commented: “SGF believes that fostering a truly diverse and inclusive workplace begins with individual knowledge and awareness. We are confident that this event will enhance understanding and empower retailers to adopt best practices for creating a more inclusive work environment.
“I am incredibly grateful to Booker Wholesale for their support as our Headline Partner. This conference has been designed to offer valuable insights, raise awareness, and provide key learnings, alongside practical tools, advice, and takeaways for independent retailers. Helping them cultivate a diverse and inclusive culture within their organizations and drive meaningful change. We will also highlight the real, measurable benefits that businesses experience when they embrace a truly diverse and inclusive culture for both their employees and customers.”
SGF Scottish Parliament Election Hustings (3pm)
Following the conclusion of the event, SGF will host a Scottish Parliament Election Hustings - chaired by Andy Maciver, Director of strategic communications from Message Matters. Were delegates can expect robust and insightful discussion on key issues for the sector, with panellists from all major Scottish political parties.
