The Independent Hotel Show, in partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers, returns to Olympia on 5-6 October 2026, bringing together the people, ideas and suppliers shaping the luxury, boutique and independent hotel sector.
Created specifically for independent hotel owners, operators, general managers, designers and senior decision-makers, the show offers two days of product discovery, practical insight and industry networking. Visitors will be able to explore solutions spanning hotel technology, interiors, amenities, food and drink, guest experience and day-to-day operations, alongside a wide-ranging programme of talks and discussions.
The theme for 2026 is ‘Shaping Tomorrow’ reflecting a sector that continues to evolve while retaining the individuality and character that distinguish independent hotels.
Throughout the event, the theme will explore how hoteliers, designers, and suppliers to the sector can respond to emerging technologies, changing traveller expectations and new commercial pressures without losing their distinctive identity.
These ideas will be brought to life across three content spaces: the Hotel Business Stage, in partnership with eviivo, designed by Merav Bustan Design; the Innovation Stage, in partnership with Agilysys; and the Social Business Space, in partnership with Zennio, designed by Design Command.
The seminar programme will offer a broad view of the opportunities and challenges facing independent hoteliers. Sessions will examine topics such as the changing UK luxury traveller, hotel performance across the UK and Europe, making F&B profitable, maximising meetings and events opportunities, and the impact of impending tourist taxes.
Technology and digital strategy will also feature prominently. Discussions will consider how hotels can prepare for the next generation of travellers, reach different generations of guests through AI, use location data to identify new luxury audiences and respond as online search and discovery become increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.
Design-focused content will explore interiors for wellbeing, accessible hospitality, refurbishment as a driver of asset value and the future of flexible hotel spaces. Elsewhere, speakers will address sustainability, mental health, management skills, team engagement, social media and authentic storytelling.
The programme has been designed to mix detailed panel discussions with focused Power Hour presentations and more interactive fireside chats and workshops, giving visitors opportunities to gain both wider strategic perspectives and concise, practical advice.
Beyond the stages, the show will present products and services for almost every area of a modern independent hotel. Technology specialists will include Focus on Hospitality, which provides IT, communications, connectivity and cyber security services for hotels, and Trybe, whose software supports bookings and operations across spas, leisure facilities and guest experiences.
For hoteliers reviewing their guest offering, CRU Kafe will showcase its organic, Fairtrade coffee, while Hawkridge Distillers will bring a range of English spirits and bespoke drinks solutions. Mint Linen will represent commercial laundry and linen hire, PCL Corporatewear will offer hospitality uniforms and workwear, and Capitol will showcase customisable amenities for hotel bedrooms, bathrooms, spas and food and beverage environments. Zennio will also demonstrate hotel automation and room-control technology.
The connections you make are real and meaningful, and genuinely last for years. The whole event has this genuine warmth that’s true to the spirit of hospitality. The panels are brilliant, and remain honest and true to the challenges and opportunities we’re all navigating right now.
say Michael and Pauline Clitheroe, Owners of TLC Hospitality.
The first day will culminate in the Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts. The awards recognise the hotels, people and design projects raising standards across the UK’s independent luxury hotel sector.
For 2026, the Independent Hotel of the Year award has been divided into Over 50 Rooms and Under 50 Rooms categories, reflecting the breadth of the market and allowing properties to be recognised alongside hotels of a similar scale. Shortlisted properties include Another Place, The Lake, The Grand, York, Cromlix, Foxhill Manor and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa.
The Hotel Rising Star shortlist celebrates emerging talent from Grantley Hall, The Newman and Morgans Hotel, while Hotel Design of the Year recognises projects at Calcot Manor & Spa, Cromlix, Miiro Templeton Garden Hotel, Penmaenuchaf and The Old Bell Hotel.
With an extensive supplier showcase, three stages of expert-led content and an awards ceremony celebrating the sector’s achievements, Independent Hotel Show 2026 will provide a valuable opportunity to take stock of the market and consider what comes next. Rooted in creativity, progress and originality, the theme of Shaping Tomorrow will celebrate the independent spirit while helping hoteliers prepare for the future.
The Independent Hotel Show takes place on 5-6 October at Olympia, register for your free trade ticket at independenthotelshow.co.uk.