Food & Drink Network gathers at Fat Bobs
“It’s great to find a space where producers, venues and suppliers can talk so openly. These meetings help us find opportunities, find out what’s coming down the line and where we can support each other.”
Food, drink and hospitality businesses from across Coventry and Warwickshire came together this month for the latest CW Food & Drink Network meeting - a regular opportunity for the sector to connect, collaborate and share insights.
The event was hosted by the newly opened Fat Bobs at
The Blue Lias in Long Itchington. Shelly and Mark Clarke, owners of Fat Bobs - the well‑known producer of handmade custom vehicle rugs - took over the iconic canalside pub in late 2025 following the retirement of the previous owners.
Over an intense two‑month period, they have worked with a network of local entrepreneurs, makers and engineers to remodel the site into a striking, family‑friendly destination themed around transport and machinery.
The reinvented venue now offers:
- Fat Bobs Emporium – showcasing a curated collection of cars, bikes and machinery with the displays changed on a rolling basis. For any owners who wish to display their machines Shelly and Mark would love to hear from you.
- The Pitstop Café – opening on 1st Feb – serving coffee, cake and relaxed café dining
- A refreshed Blue Lias Pub – offering traditional meals including a popular Sunday Roast in wonderful cosy indoor setting as well as outdoor and canalside dining.
- Outdoor attractions – including a fishing lake, camping and an events field for regular car meets, events and celebrations.
Shelly and Mark say the response since opening has exceeded all expectations.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support. The number of visitors, the enthusiasm from local clubs, and the kindness of the community has been incredible,” said Shelly.
“We love seeing enthusiasts bring their cars, bikes and machines into the emporium — but more than anything, we want people to feel welcome here,” added Mark. “This is such a beautiful spot by the canal, and our aim is to make it a place families and enthusiasts can all enjoy.”
This month’s CW Food & Drink Network meeting included a series of timely presentations and updates. Speakers covered:
Gary Dacosta from Farmfest, presented on the scale and ambition of this new show, describing it as “a major new platform to spotlight the nation’s farmers, producers and rural businesses.” The event is set to feature high‑profile names including Jeremy Clarkson, Adam Henson and live music from Groove Armada, 10cc and Sophie Ellis‑Bextor. The session concluded with a round robin of speed introductions where attendees gave shout outs for their business along with one opportunity or challenge. This activity uncovered interesting discussions and was followed by enthusiastic conversations and networking.
Reflecting on the value of the network, one business owner commented:
“It’s great to find a space where producers, venues and suppliers can talk so openly. These meetings help us find opportunities, find out what’s coming down the line and where we can support each other.”
The next Network meeting will take place in Coventry on 22 April 2026 (venue TBC).