DB Conference survey offers chance to win free tickets
the drinks business is inviting wine professionals to help shape the agenda for its 2026 conference through a short industry survey. Three respondents will receive complimentary tickets to the event, while all participants will qualify for a discount on admission.
The four-minute survey is designed to identify the issues, challenges and opportunities that matter most to fine wine professionals ahead of this year’s event, which will take place at the British Library in London on 23 September.
As an incentive, three respondents selected at random will receive free tickets to the conference, worth up to £149 each. All other participants will receive a promotional code offering 20% off ticket prices.
Focus on the changing fine wine market
This year’s conference will be held under the theme How to Win in a Changing Fine Wine Market.
Organisers say the event will examine the increasingly complex environment facing the trade, from tariffs, taxation and currency volatility to geopolitical uncertainty and shifting consumer behaviour.
While these challenges continue to place pressure on businesses, the conference aims to identify areas of opportunity and practical strategies for success.
Sessions will focus on topics including pricing strategy, client retention, sourcing and market positioning, with speakers and panellists to be announced in the coming months.
Industry insight at the heart of the agenda
By canvassing views from across the sector, the drinks business hopes to ensure the programme reflects the most pressing concerns facing merchants, producers, importers, retailers and investors.
The survey forms part of the publication’s effort to create a conference agenda driven by the needs of the trade rather than predetermined talking points.
Headline sponsor Liv-ex will once again support the event.
Event details
The DB Conference will take place on Wednesday 23 September 2026 at the Knowledge Centre, British Library, London.
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The event will run from 1pm to 7pm and include panel discussions, networking opportunities and a drinks reception featuring fine and rare wines.
The programme currently includes:
1:00pm – 1:30pm Reception and refreshments
1:30pm – 1:45pm Introduction by Patrick Schmitt MW, editor-in-chief of the drinks business
1:45pm – 5:30pm Panel discussions and speaker sessions
5:30pm – 7:00pm Drinks reception
Building on last year’s debate
The conference follows the 2025 edition, where affordability, moderation trends and storytelling emerged as some of the industry’s most significant themes.
Speaking at last year’s event, Simon Farr, chairman of Cru World Wine, argued that the wine trade needed to work harder to communicate value and engage consumers.
“I think the issue is not with the product but the energy we put into compellingly telling the stories,” he said.
The 2026 conference is expected to continue those conversations while addressing the latest commercial realities facing the fine wine sector.
The survey is now open, with organisers encouraging wine professionals from across the industry to contribute their views.
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