Event celebrates collaboration and growth in local Food Tourism
16 September 2026
Guildhall hosts special networking and engagement event focused on the future development of the LegenDerry Food brand.
Hospitality and tourism businesses from across Derry and Strabane gathered at the Guildhall this week for a special networking and engagement event focused on the future development of the LegenDerry Food brand and the continued growth of the region's food tourism offering.
Hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council, the event brought together industry stakeholders to explore how the LegenDerry Food brand is evolving to further strengthen the district's reputation as an exciting food destination.
Attendees heard about plans to build on the success of the award-winning brand, which has helped raise the profile of local food, drink and hospitality businesses while creating new opportunities for collaboration, promotion and business growth across the sector.
Speaking afterwards, Council's Tourism Manager, Jennifer O'Donnell, said the event provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with businesses and share plans for the next phase of the LegenDerry Food journey.
"Today's event provided a forum for the hospitality sector to come together to discuss the future of the LegenDerry Food brand. The brand has achieved significant success over the years by championing our exceptional local produce, celebrating the people behind it and promoting Derry and Strabane as a destination where visitors can enjoy authentic and memorable food experiences.
"Today highlighted the strength of partnership working across the sector and the shared ambition to continue building our reputation for outstanding local food and hospitality experiences.
"As we look ahead, our focus is on strengthening the collective impact of the brand and creating new opportunities for businesses to collaborate. The enthusiasm and ideas shared at the event demonstrate the huge potential that exists for future growth."
Participants also had the opportunity to network with fellow businesses, share experiences and learn more about how they can become involved in future LegenDerry Food initiatives.
The event is just one element in Council's ongoing work with the local hospitality sector to establish Derry and Strabane's position as one of the island's leading food tourism destinations, and later this month Council will unveil its updated Tourism Action Plan, setting out its ambitions for future growth. The strategy will reaffirm the commitment to promoting the North West as a destination renowned for its quality produce, vibrant hospitality offering and unique culinary experiences.