BeerX named ‘Event of the Year’ at TAF Awards 2026

BeerX UK, organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), has been named ‘Event of the Year’ at the Trade Association Forum (TAF) Awards 2026 for 'bringing together brewers, suppliers and policymakers in a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks and awards'.

The UK’s biggest brewing industry event, BeerX has gone from strength to strength since moving to Exhibition Centre Liverpool and has been recognised by judges for achieving ‘record attendance and expanded content’.

Presenting the TAF Awards was TV presenter and magician Ben Hanlin, known for appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Celebrity Juice and as a contestant on ITV's Dancing on Ice. Naming BeerX as the UK’s best event over 500 attendees, Ben highlighted the judges glowing comments;

“SIBA's Beer event brought together brewers, suppliers and policymakers in a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks and awards With record attendance and expanded content, the event supported industry networking, growth and best practice. Judges applauded the event's creativity, energy and industry representation.”

Representing the awards on behalf of SIBA Rachel Harriott, Head of Membership, Neil Walker Head of Comms & Marketing, Anneli Baxter SIBA Director, and Lucy Hunter-Bott, BeerX Bars Manager.

“I’m so proud to be a part of such a fab team and seeing other trade associations with so many members of staff it amazes me even more by what we achieve at BeerX with such a small team!” Rachel Harriott, SIBA Head of Membership.  

The judging panel recognised the growth of the event, with BeerX expanding into three halls of Exhibition Centre Liverpool in 2025, dramatically increasing the event size and creating space for more exhibitors than ever before. Attendance also increased to match, rising from 2995 in 2024 to an all-time high of 3,493 in 2025. The event features a packed content schedule of seminars, talks and tastings, the Indie Beer showcase of 9 regional bars, the SIBA AGM and Members’ Conference, and the Indie Beer Awards and SIBA Business Awards 2026, presented by Sunday Times Beer Columnist Pete Brown.

Approval ratings from attendees also remained impressively high in 2025; with 97% of Exhibitors stating that BeerX is the UK’s best brewing trade show, and 99% of Delegates would recommend BeerX to an industry colleague.

To apply for Delegate Tickets for the event visit www.beerx.org

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