The World Farmers Markets Coalition is pleased to highlight the annual FRA Conference and Awards, hosted by our member, the Farm Retail Association (FRA), in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, from 10 to 12 March 2026.
Designed exclusively for farm retail owners and operators, the FRA Conference is a flagship event for the UK farm retail sector. The 2026 edition will focus on one of the most pressing challenges for farm retailers today: attracting more visitors and inspiring repeat custom. Through practical insights, innovative ideas, and meaningful peer-to-peer exchanges, the conference offers valuable tools to strengthen farm retail businesses and build long-term customer loyalty.
The event will unfold across several inspiring moments, including:
- A welcome evening in Harrogate
- Farm Retail Tours showcasing some of the region’s most successful businesses
- The Farm Retail Awards Dinner, celebrating excellence across the sector
- The Conference and Trade Exhibition, bringing together retailers, suppliers, and industry experts
More than a traditional conference, the FRA Conference and Awards is an opportunity to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and return home with fresh inspiration and concrete ideas for the future of farm retail.
We are proud to announce that Carmelo Troccoli, Director General of the World Farmers Markets Coalition, will be actively involved in the programme. Carmelo will speak at the workshop “Farmers Markets Influencing the Food Industry Across the World”, taking place on: Thursday 12 March 2026 at 3:15pm (London time) at The Pavilions of Harrogate, Great Yorkshire Showground (HG2 8NZ)
In addition, Carmelo will present an award at the Gala Dinner for Best UK Farmers’ Market, reinforcing the strong connection between farmers markets, farm retail, and sustainable food systems at both national and global levels.
Those interested in learning more about the FRA Conference and Awards 2026, or wishing to purchase tickets for the Conference & Trade Exhibition on Thursday 12 March 2026, can find full details on the Farm Retail Association website. For more infromation, please contact hello@farmretail.co.uk.
