Groundswell insights 2026

We’ve just returned from another brilliant couple of days at Groundswell Festival 2026, and we’re still buzzing.

Every year, Groundswell brings together farmers, researchers, scientists and food businesses to share ideas and explore how we can build a more resilient future for farming. For us, it’s a chance to step away from the day-to-day, catch up with familiar faces, make new connections and learn from the people helping shape the future of agriculture. From inspiring conversations and exciting collaborations to plenty of yogurt, we came away feeling energised about what lies ahead. Here are some of our highlights.

Why does Groundswell matter to Yeo Valley?

At Yeo Valley, everything starts from the ground up. Healthy soils help grow healthy grass, which helps produce healthy food. That’s why regenerative organic farming is such an important part of our journey and why Groundswell feels like such a natural place for us to be. It gives us the chance to:

• Listen and learn from farmers, scientists and businesses

• Share what we’ve learned through our own farming journey

• Build relationships and explore new collaborations

• Discuss the challenges facing regenerative organic farming

It’s a place where ideas take root, conversations grow and new partnerships can begin.

What were the highlights for Yeo Valley?

One of our biggest highlights was seeing our Chief Impact & Financial Officer, Fay Cooke, take to the stage as part of the Soil to Supermarket panel. Fay explored the opportunities and challenges facing regenerative organic farming, and why collaboration across the food supply chain is so important if we want to create a resilient future for farmers, businesses and the environment.

We also celebrated the official launch of the Centre for Dynamic Soils, an exciting collaboration bringing together farmers, researchers, scientists and food businesses. The Centre focuses on:

• Farmer-led research focused on real on-farm challenges

• Collaboration between farmers, scientists and businesses

• Turning research into practical action to support healthier soils and more resilient farms

It was inspiring to see so many people united by a shared goal: helping our soils thrive for generations to come.

What was happening at the Yeo Valley Hub?

If you were looking for the Yeo Valley team, chances are you found us surrounded by good food, great conversations and plenty of smiling faces. Visitors could enjoy:

• Fresh milk, kefir, tea and ice-cold Equinox Kombucha

• Yogurt bowls and ice cream sundaes

• Homemade soups, sandwiches, brownies and granola bars

• A welcoming space to sit, share stories and swap ideas

Some of our favourite moments weren't on stage at all. They happened over a bowl of yogurt, a cup of tea or a chance encounter with someone equally passionate about the future of farming.

How did Yeo Valley celebrate at Groundswell?

As the sun began to set on the first day, we hosted the pre- and after-party for Andy Cato's SuperStylin' DJ set. Guests tucked into our beef burgers, enjoyed a well-earned drink and soaked up the atmosphere after a busy day of talks and discussions. There was music, laughter and plenty of familiar faces a lovely reminder that some of the strongest connections are made when everyone gets the chance to slow down and enjoy each other's company.

What’s next?

Groundswell is about far more than two days in a field. It’s a chance to share ideas, learn from one another and turn conversations into action. We’re heading home with muddy boots, fresh ideas and plenty of inspiration for the year ahead. A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by the Yeo Valley Hub, shared a story, asked a question or simply came over for a chat. Those conversations are what make Groundswell so special.

We can’t wait to see what grows between now and Groundswell 2027.