2026 miaList winners announced by the Meetings Industry Association
The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) has released the 2026 miaList winners, highlighting top individuals, teams and venues in the UK business meetings and events sector. The announcement was made on 9 November 2026 and applies to industry participants across the United Kingdom.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- The 2026 miaList winners have been announced
- Timing
- Announcement made on 9 November 2026
- Who is affected
- UK meetings and events industry professionals
The details
- Announced by
- Meetings Industry Association (MIA)
Overview of the 2026 miaList
The miaList is an annual awards programme that celebrates excellence across 14 categories in the UK business meetings and events sector. The 2026 edition recognised individuals, teams and organisations for talent, creativity and dedication.
Key Winners and Categories
Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates) was awarded to Carden Park Hotel, while Imago Venues – Burleigh Court took the gold for Venue of the Year (Under 300 Delegates). Sam Glenister‑Batey of University of Leeds, Conferences & Events received Inspirational Leader of the Year. The list also includes winners for Rising Star, Agency of the Year, Supplier of the Year and several event‑specific awards.
- Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates) – Carden Park Hotel
- Venue of the Year (Under 300 Delegates) – Imago Venues – Burleigh Court
- Inspirational Leader of the Year – Sam Glenister‑Batey
Judging and Celebration
An expert panel of industry professionals assessed the entries, including representatives from The Belfry Hotel & Resort, QEII Centre, Cvent and Northstar Travel Group. The awards ceremony took place at the East Midlands Conference Centre, honouring the memory of the late Gail Tomlinson‑Short.
- Judging panel comprised 15 senior industry figures
- Ceremony held at East Midlands Conference Centre
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings for award‑winning venues remain unchanged
- No new travel restrictions or entry requirements are introduced
Cost and documents
- No additional fees or documentation are required for attending the ceremony
- Travel costs for visiting award venues are unchanged
What you need to do
- Monitor MIA communications for any future industry initiatives
- Consider the award‑winning venues when planning future meetings
Who this affects
-
Venue owners and managers
They are eligible for recognition in the miaList awards
What to do Continue to deliver high‑quality services to maintain eligibility
-
Event planners and organisers
Their projects may be nominated for event‑specific categories
What to do Submit entries for future miaList cycles
-
Industry professionals
Individuals can be nominated for leadership and rising‑star awards
What to do Engage with MIA networking opportunities
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2026 miaList Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates)?
The 2026 miaList Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates) was awarded to Carden Park Hotel, as announced by the Meetings Industry Association on 9 November 2026.
When and where was the 2026 miaList ceremony held?
The ceremony took place on 9 November 2026 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, where the Meetings Industry Association presented the awards.
Which individual received the Inspirational Leader of the Year award in 2026?
Sam Glenister‑Batey of University of Leeds, Conferences & Events received the Inspirational Leader of the Year award in the 2026 miaList.
How many categories are included in the miaList awards?
The 2026 miaList featured 14 award categories covering venues, individuals, teams, agencies, suppliers and specific events.
Can I attend the miaList ceremony as a guest?
The source does not mention guest attendance policies, so no specific information on public access to the ceremony is provided.