Panel Talk: From Likes to Loyalty

Join us for some lively discussion about the highs and lows of making it in the food business world. At these panel talks, the UK's leading voices will be sharing their food business stories, and some of the expertise and valuable lessons they learned along the way.

This is an open session for aspiring food and drink founders where we encourage participants to get involved, ask questions and apply ideas to their own projects and businesses.

For this panel, we will be learning from Troy Johnson (Cofounder, Sweet Dees Jerk) and Gemma Roche (Senior Client Director, PB Creative).

This panel will be chaired by James Hickson (Account Director, Brand Hackers) and we will be exploring all the key elements of brand building that drive loyalty and retention and what makes a brand truly stand out from the crowd.

About the event:

How do the most successful food and drink brands turn casual buyers into lifelong customers? Join us for an inspiring panel discussion with industry experts and brand founders as we explore the essential strategies behind customer loyalty and retention.

From crafting an authentic brand story to leveraging community engagement and digital tactics, this session will equip you with actionable insights to build a brand that not only attracts customers—but keeps them coming back.

Topics the panelists will be covering:

• The Power of Storytelling – How to create an emotional connection with your audience.
• Building a Standout Brand Identity – Beyond just visuals—define your voice, values, and mission.
• Community & Engagement Strategies – Events, collaborations, and purpose-driven initiatives that foster brand advocacy.
• Winning Digital & Social Loyalty Tactics – Email marketing, content strategies, and rewards programmes that work.
• Overcoming Industry Challenges – Standing out in a saturated market and adapting to evolving consumer trends.

Please note that this is an in-person event. Ticket includes access to the panel talk, networking and post-panel food and drink.

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Tickets are free for Mission Kitchen members.

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