SYP Scotland Conference 2026

SYP Scotland Conference 2026 – Publishing to the People: How human perspectives shape our industry

**FLASH SALE ON TICKETS – NOW UNTIL SUNDAY**

SYP Scotland is excited to announce our new 2026 spring conference Publishing to the People: How human perspectives shape our industry. Join us on Saturday 25th of April at the beautiful Dovecot Studios’ Ladies Baths in Edinburgh.

In a time where we most need reminding of our humanity and the unique value of the written word, Publishing to the People brings together industry professionals spanning editorial, production, marketing, distribution, festival programming, scouting, and business intelligence to show the irreplaceable power of people. These speakers will offer expert insights to young publishers, join in dynamic discussions, and engage in networking opportunities.

The day will equip aspiring and early-career publishers with people skills that help them network and get their books into festivals or prizes; with gems of wisdom covering market insights and technological developments; and with considerations to take away such as treating readers as data points versus people and impending changes in our sector.

From the people getting book ideas off the ground through to platforms and events that make books more widely accessible, this conference will explore the trends, trials and technologies shaping the publishing landscape today, and what that means for people within and beyond our industry.

Keynotes and performer

This conference will feature keynote speakers Duncan Lockerbie (Lumphanan Press and Tapsalteerie) and Emma Barnes (Consonance) and performer Len Pennie (poyums; poyums annaw).

You’ll be able to attend panels, workshops and sessions including:

Buzzwords: a double-edged sword? 

What makes a good marketing campaign?

Reaching wider audiences 

Pitching: yourself and your books 

Lesser known roles in publishing

Book swap break with Matchbox – Answer questions in advance that pair you with someone in the room based on your interests – then meet in this networking break and swap books!

See here for all of speaker bios

Check out our Sponsors and Exhibitors pages (including sneak peeks into which discounts and freebies you’ll receive!)

Lunch will not be provided on-site.

Attendees will need to leave the conference during the lunch break to purchase their own meals.

Digital ticket holders will receive conference videos via email in the days following the event.

Accessibility: The event space is accessible from the ground floor via lift. Accessible toilets are available within the event space.