SGF Annual Conference
Wednesday 18th November 2026
Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow
2025 Testimonials
It was a pleasure to host the SGF annual conference. A well organised, dynamic day, it had some really interesting speakers, and it was a great opportunity for delegates to hear from inspiring figures in the sector. Everyone was so passionate about their industry and incredibly engaged. Also, a brilliant chance to network.
Rona Dougal, BBC Scotland Presenter
“What a pleasure to attend my first SGF conference. Engaging sessions and inspiring speakers. Superbly managed and wonderfully organised, creating great networking and collaboration opportunities. Well done Pete, Angela and all the team”
Stephen Jempson, Jempsons Ltd
“We attended the SGF for the first time in October 2025. The day allowed us to speak to some existing customers and discuss performance and our range, as well as speak to new retailers and customers to potentially partner with in the future. The evening event was a great opportunity to speak with others we may not have during the day and discuss trends and plans moving forward. It was great to speak with some other suppliers or customers, who we may not have seen at other events previously”
Keshav Sharma, Au Vodka
SGF Conference 2026 – Customer & Community: More Than a Store!
Get ready for an inspiring day at the SGF Conference 2026, where Scotland’s convenience retail community will come together to celebrate the vital role local shops play at the heart of our communities and local economies.
Taking place on Wednesday 18th November 2026 at the Doubletree by Hilton, Cambridge Street, Glasgow, this year’s conference promises a packed programme of insight, discussion, practical ideas and networking, alongside our largest trade exhibition of the year.
Hosted by Scottish broadcaster Rona Dougall, the day will feature an outstanding line-up of speakers and contributors, including Dr. Pete Cheema OBE, Stephen Flynn MSP, Jamie Buchanan, Rhona Lawson, Shiva Kumar, Stephen Curran, Graham Watson, David Perks, Kathryn Neil, Margaret Anne Clark, Karl Southworth, Wendy Craig, Andy Kenney and Ryan Hutchison.
From business updates and sector insight to interactive sessions with the UK DMO – Exchange for Change and Bobby’s Foods, the programme will shine a spotlight on the theme “Customer & Community: More Than A Store” — exploring how retailers continue to adapt, innovate and deliver even more for the people and places they serve.
And when the business is done, the celebrations continue at our black-tie President’s Gala Dinner, complete with entertainment — the perfect chance to relax, connect and enjoy a memorable evening in fantastic company.
If you would like more information on the above packages or chat through sponsorship opportunities please email events@sgfscot.co.uk.
#SGFAC26
Speakers
Rona Dougall
Scottish Broadcaster
Dr. Pete Cheema OBE
Chief Executive, SGF
Stephen Flynn MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport
Scottish Government
Jamie Buchanan
Programme Director
SGF Go Local Programme
Rhona Lawson
The Knowledge Bank
Shiva Kumar
Day Today, Haddington
Stephen Curran
Business Unit Director – Wholesale
AG Barr
Graham Watson
President, SGF
David Perks
UK Managing Director
ME Group UK
Kathryn Neil
Programme Director
SGF Healthy Living ProgrammeMargaret Anne Clark
Head of People & Performance
Scotmid
Karl Southworth
Head of Field Sales, Allwyn
Wendy Craig
Divisional Sales Manager, Allwyn
Andy Kenney
SGF President Elect / bp
Ryan Hutchison
SPAR Scone