Liverpool hospitality association people awards return for 2026

Returning for 2026, the Liverpool Hospitality People Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals who power the city’s vibrant hospitality and visitor economy. 

The awards recognise the talented people working across Liverpool’s hospitality sector — from hotels and restaurants to bars, attractions and visitor services, in association with headline sponsors Liverpool Accommodation BID, Liverpool ONE, Saffron Vanilla and Titanic Hotel Liverpool.

The 2026 awards will feature 16 categories, including Rising Star and Unsung Hero, celebrating both customer-facing staff and those working behind the scenes. In addition, the prestigious Judges’ and Chairman’s Awards, which are not open for public entry, will honour inspirational figures who have made a significant impact within the sector.

Peter Schriewersmann and Helen Roberts, Co-Chairs of the Liverpool Hospitality Association, said:

“The Liverpool Hospitality People Awards are more than an event; they are a celebration of the incredible people working within the Liverpool City Region’s visitor economy. These awards recognise the dedication, passion and hard work shown by individuals and teams across all areas of hospitality. Following seven successful years, we hope to welcome more nominations than ever in 2026 while continuing to raise vital funds for some fantastic charities.”

Last year’s event raised over £25,000 for good causes, with the Liverpool Hospitality People Awards proudly supporting both local and national charities.

Bill Addy, Chief Executive of Liverpool Business Improvement District, added:

“Liverpool Accommodation BID is thrilled to be a joint headline sponsor of the Liverpool Hospitality People Awards 2026. Hospitality lies at the heart of Liverpool’s identity and visitor economy, and these awards celebrate the people and businesses who make our city such a welcoming and vibrant destination. We are proud to champion the sector and the talent that drives it forward.”

Liverpool ONE also joins the awards as a headline sponsor. 

Donna Howitt, Deputy Centre Director at Liverpool ONE, said:

“Liverpool’s greatest strength has always been its people, whose warmth and generosity of spirit create an experience unlike anywhere else. These awards provide a vital platform to recognise those who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding service, helping our hospitality and retail sectors remain vibrant, resilient and future-focused.”

Applications for the Liverpool Hospitality People Awards 2026 are now open, with submissions accepted until midnight on Friday 27 February 2026. 

Finalists will be announced in early March, with winners revealed at an awards ceremony on 30 April 2026, hosted by long-standing supporters Titanic Hotel and Rum Warehouse.

Additional sponsors include The Guide Liverpool, Sugar and Lime, PIB Insurance Brokers, Wigan Beer, MSP Global, The Hospitality Hero, Red Events Creative, RW Wedding Photography and Cool Breeze Events.

Find out more about the Liverpool Hospitality Awards here.

Find more business news across Liverpool on our website.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.