The kbbreview Retail & Design Awards is set to be the biggest UK KBB industry event of 2026, and it’s now almost upon us. So, here’s a handy guide to everything you might possibly need to know about coming to the awards this year.
When is it?
This year’s kbbreview Awards is being held on Monday, March 2.
Where is it?
As has long been tradition in years that that coincide with the kbb Show, The kbbreview Awards will also take place in the great city of Birmingham.
What’s the venue?
This year’s glittering awards reception, dinner and ceremony will be held at the Monarch Suite of the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. It’s the venue we use every time kbb Birmingham comes to town, and you’ll be pleased to know it’s also only a short walk from the NEC itself and Birmingham International station.
If you want to see where it is on a map, click here.
Can I still get a ticket?
Unfortunately, ticket sales have now sold out. Feel free to contact Tracey on 020 8515 2113 or [email protected] for all seating enquiries.
What’s the dress code?
As the biggest night of the KBB calendar, it’s black tie, of course.
Does this year have a theme?
Absolutely, and we really think we’ve knocked it out of the park with this one! The 2026 awards is a complete love letter to the iconic style of 1950s retro Americana. Think lots of neon, outstanding quiffs, and chequerboard flooring (perfect for a post-awards sock-hop). Basically, if Marlon Brando were still alive, we think he’d be there.
What time does it start?
It all kicks off at 6:30 with a Welcome Drinks Reception which is very kindly sponsored by Hettich.
What happens during dinner and the ceremony?
There’ll be loads of surprises throughout the entire evening, but the sumptuous three-course dinner will be followed by the ceremony itself, where we reveal the winners of the most prestigious retail and design awards in the industry.
Who’s the host?
You’ll find out on the night!
What surprises will there be?
As always, an awful lot, but since you asked so nicely, we’ll give you one now. One of the highlights of the night will be our legendary Grand Prize Giveaway, which this year is generously sponsored by Haier. Essentially, someone in that room on the night will walk away with a whopping £5,000 (yes, really!). Could it be you?
Is there a #hashtag?
Absolutely, it’s #kbbawards2026, so make sure you use that to tag all of your favourite memories on the night.
Remind me, who are the finalists?
You can read the full list of this year’s finalists here. You can find out a bit more about the awards process in a series of dedicated bonus episodes of The kbbreview Podcast here, which have been sponsored by our Podcast Partner Sonas Bathrooms.
And, for a bit more insight, you can also meet the finalists for this year’s Rising Star category – which is sponsored once again by Blum – in a special podcast series here.
Is there an afterparty?
Of course! Once the awards ceremony is finished and the winners have received their glittering trophies, you’re welcome to jive your way through the night with our live band on the groovy dance floor.