BCB London, the largest trade fair in the UK for the international bar and beverage industry, will return to Tobacco Dock on 11 to 12 May 2026, building on a strong debut with an expanded ‘Local Heroes’ showcase and a renewed focus on education.
The show will also welcome Elliot Ball as its new Director of Education, shaping a future-facing seminar programme for the hospitality industry across the British Isles.
Following its successful launch in 2025, ‘Local Heroes’ will once again spotlight the people, products and stories shaping the British Isles’ drinks scene. The initiative gives homegrown brands and makers a dedicated platform at BCB London, connecting them directly with bartenders, buyers and decision-makers who value regional craft and local impact.
‘Local Heroes’ at BCB London 2026 will:
- Champion UK and Irish drinks brands with strong local roots
- Create meaningful connections between producers and both the on- and off-trade, and
- Continue to grow as a leading platform for regional talent in the years ahead
Elliot Ball appointed Director of Education
BCB London has appointed London bartender and hospitality consultant Elliot Ball as Director of Education for the 2026 show.
In the role, Ball will oversee the strategy, structure, curation and delivery of the entire education programme, ensuring it reflects the realities, challenges and ambitions of today’s bar industry.
Working closely with the BCB London team, Ball will:
- Define key themes, formats, industry trends and future-focused topics
- Curate a diverse, high-calibre lineup of speakers and contributors
- Shape sessions spanning keynotes, panels, workshops and practical learning
As co-founder of The Cocktail Trading Co, HM’s, Filthy XIII, Murder Inc. and Royal Cocktail Exchange, Ball brings deep experience across bartending, systems design and training, with a distinctive focus on the psychology of enjoyment, satisfaction and growth in hospitality.
Back for year two in London
“Bringing BCB London back for a second year feels like a real statement,” said BCB London’s brand ambassador, Jack Sotti. “The response from the trade in year one demonstrated there is a genuine appetite for a show that speaks directly to the international bar and beverage community – and 2026 gives us the chance to build on that energy and do even more.”
Petra Lassahn, BCB director, added: “Launching BCB London taught us a great deal, from timing and logistics to what the UK and wider international market really wants from a trade show. What became very clear is that BCB London is not another version of Berlin.
“Each show serves a different market and purpose, and both have a valuable role to play. We are convinced there is a real need for both shows, each with its own identity, and London has firmly earned its place in the BCB calendar.”
BCB London 2026 will take place at Tobacco Dock on 11 to 12 May. Further details on exhibitors, education programming and feature areas will be announced in due course.
