June 15, 2026 - 146 views
Young people with a passion for the food and drink industry are being offered a rare opportunity to step inside one of Wales’ most prestigious agricultural events, the Royal Welsh Show, through a new immersive programme led by the Welsh Government’s Sgiliau Bwyd a Diod Cymru / Food & Drink Skills Wales initiative.
Expressions of Interest are now open to individuals aged 18 and over who want to gain exclusive access to the Food & Drink Wales Business Lounge and Product Showcase, located on the first floor of the Food Hall at the show.
Normally an invitation-only space, the Business Lounge is where major food and drink buyers meet suppliers, negotiate deals and explore new products. The showcase features more than 2,000 products from over 300 Welsh businesses, offering participants a rare insight into the commercial realities of the sector.
Successful applicants will be guided through the experience by industry experts, with opportunities to observe buyer-supplier discussions, learn how products reach supermarket shelves, and understand the dynamics of sales and negotiation. They will also tour the wider Food Hall, meet Welsh producers, and experience the fast-paced environment of trading directly from exhibition stalls.
Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd, said the initiative offers a valuable stepping stone for future careers in the sector.
He said the Royal Welsh Show is a cornerstone of Wales’ food and drink industry, providing a showcase for talent and produce while giving young people “a rare behind-the-scenes look” at how the sector operates commercially.
He added that the programme is designed to build skills, confidence and professional networks, encouraging applicants interested in careers in sales, marketing, retail, entrepreneurship and food production.
Former participant Ifan Davies described the experience as transformative, saying access to the Business Lounge and direct contact with professionals gave him “a new perspective” on how products reach consumers, alongside increased confidence and industry connections.
The one-day experience will take place during Royal Welsh Show week in July and will last around three hours. Participants will receive a complimentary show entry ticket, with travel support available.
Places are limited, and interest is expected to be high. While submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee a place, all applicants will be acknowledged.
Applications close on Monday 29 June, with further details available via emily.rees@mentera.cymru.
