The European cannabis landscape is entering a high-growth phase, marked by the arrival of seasoned entrepreneurs and major institutional shifts. As Cannabis Europa London 2026 approaches, the first wave of speakers has been announced, highlighting a diverse intersection of pharmaceutical innovation, global policy, and venture capital.
Martin Dickie MBE & Waterside Pharmaceuticals
A major highlight of this year’s event is the transition of Martin Dickie MBE into the medical cannabis sector. Best known as the co-founder of BrewDog, Dickie now serves as the CEO of Waterside Pharmaceuticals.
Waterside Pharmaceuticals is positioning itself as a leader in the UK’s domestic supply chain. Operating a high-tech indoor vertical farm in Aberdeenshire, the company utilizes Total Controlled Environment Agriculture (TCEA) to produce pharmaceutical-grade cannabis starter material. This venture aims to reduce the UK’s reliance on imported medical cannabis, which currently accounts for the vast majority of the domestic market.
The Voices Shaping the Global Industry
The 2026 speaker lineup features key figures driving the commercial and regulatory evolution of cannabis across Europe and North America:
| Speaker | Role & Organization | Expertise |
| Saphira Galoob | Executive Director, US Cannabis Council (USCC) | Federal Policy & Advocacy |
| Bryan Lanza | Partner, Mercury Public Affairs | Political Strategy & Transition Insights |
| Richard List | Drug Liaison Officer, Thames Valley Police | Law Enforcement & Regulatory Compliance |
| Simone Van Breda | President, Union of Cultivating Brothers | European Cultivation Standards |
| Karan Wadhera | Managing Partner, Casa Verde Capital | Venture Capital & Global Investment |
| Barry Laxer | Founder & CEO, Cielo Verde | International Operations & Supply Chain |
The Business of Cannabis Awards 2026
Running alongside the main conference is the Business of Cannabis Awards, now in its third year. Hosted at Rivington Street in London on May 26, 2026, the awards ceremony celebrates excellence across ten categories, including:
- The Hannah Deacon Award (Patient Advocacy)
- Producer of the Year
- Business Leader of the Year
- Industry Rising Star
The awards serve as the premier networking event for over 200 senior professionals, honoring those who have made significant contributions to the European cannabis value chain.
Event Details: Cannabis Europa London 2026
- Date: May 26–27, 2026
- Location: The Barbican Centre, London
- Key Themes: Market Economics, Medical Access, and Europe’s Political Crossroads.
With over 1,500 attendees and 70+ speakers expected, Cannabis Europa remains the definitive forum for those navigating the complexities of the European medical and adult-use markets.