Food and drink founders' table

Building a business in the food and drink industry is no easy feat. Buyers can be hard to reach, regulatory compliance is complex and profit margins can feel razor-thin.

That's why we've created a space for food and drink business owners to tackle these challenges head-on, no matter where you are on your journey.

Each month, Leisa Pickles, Enterprise Nation ambassador and founder of Find Me the Leads®, brings food and drink business owners together for real, honest conversations about running and growing a business in the industry today.

The October Table: Ryan Panchoo on winning Channel 4 and Lloyds Bank’s ‘Black in Business’ award

For our October Table, we're going behind the scenes with Ryan Panchoo, founder of London-based inclusive treats brand Borough 22.

Determined to create better options for his children with food intolerances, Ryan set out to develop his own allergy-friendly products. With no previous background in cookery or baking, he began experimenting in his garden kitchen more than a decade ago.

Since then, Borough 22 has grown into an award-winning bakery, securing a permanent concession in the Selfridges Foodhall on Oxford Street.

Now, Ryan is celebrating a major milestone after winning the Channel 4 Sales and Lloyds Bank ‘Black in Business' 2026 competition. As part of the win, Borough 22 will receive £200,000 of TV advertising, along with mentorship.

Ryan will be sharing what the journey has looked like, how he came to win the award, and what it means for the next chapter of Borough 22.

What to expect

This will be an informal, interview-style Q&A hosted by Leisa Pickles on Tuesday, 20 October at 11.00 am, giving you the chance to hear Ryan’s experience and ask your own questions.

Who this session is for

Whether you're a small business owner, a solo founder or a growing team, if you operate in the food and drink industry and want to connect with others doing the same, this is your table.

Grab a coffee and join us.