For 2026 the British Ports Association took its Annual Conference to Dover. Capacity rose to 450 delegates, making it the biggest yet. It was held at Cruise Terminal 1, a former railway station built in 1914, and events agency Freshwater asked us back as sole caterer. The Port of Dover wanted the event to reflect its focus on sustainability and local impact, so the brief was food with a strong sense of place, served from the drinks reception right through to the gala dinner.

We travelled from Cardiff to research Kent’s independent food scene, then built the menu around four local businesses: Gilda Bakery for breakfast pastries, Lost Sheep Coffee in Whitstable, Cow Shed on the Hoof for American-style barbecue lunches and Biddenden Vineyards for Kent wine. Our team ran service across three days, from the drinks reception and breakfast pastries to barbecue lunches and all-day refreshments, serving over 900 dishes, 1,300 pastries and 2,000 coffees.

The event finished with a gala dinner, where we served a three-course meal to 350 delegates. The evening began with starter boards of Kent cheese and charcuterie, hearty pies for the main course and finally an indulgent gypsy tart for dessert. We teamed up with Cedar events for a bespoke drinks service throughout.

Freshwater had one contact throughout, and we managed every allergen and dietary requirement.

The result: Our largest event to date, our second BPA conference and our first as sole caterer, and 450 delegates introduced to the best of Kent’s independent food and drink.