In this exclusive Conference News blog, by Kerry Edwards, managing director at boutique creative agency Bien Venue, she explores whether Manchester is having its moment in becoming a business events powerhouse.
Manchester is having a moment! From global entertainment showcases to purpose-driven initiatives, the city is rewriting the playbook for how destinations can attract, host, and amplify the value of events.
I may be a little biased, as the managing director of a Manchester-based venue sourcing and event management agency. But I’m seeing first-hand how the city has stepped up in its infrastructure and its ambition.
A £1.3 billion transformation of Manchester Airport is reshaping the region’s international connectivity, making it even easier to bring global delegates to the North. Ease of access remains one of the top considerations for international event organisers, so this investment firmly future-proofs Manchester’s competitive edge.
Equally exciting is the launch of the Legacy & Social Impact Guide.
The new initiative is driven by Marketing Manchester, Manchester Central, and Manchester Community Central. It supports event planners in weaving social value directly into their events, connecting them directly with 25 local charities and projects.
It’s a move that ensures conferences and events hosted here can leave a real and lasting impact and value for our communities – it’s a game-changer.
Manchester’s ability to host cultural flagships like the BRIT Awards and an NBA regular-season game further signals its rising profile. For years, London dominated conversations about large-scale events. Now, Manchester is proving it has the venues and creativity to rival anywhere in the UK.
The city’s venue and hospitality landscape is also transforming. The new Co-op Live Arena, the UK’s largest indoor arena, adds an iconic space to the mix.
Meanwhile, hotels such as the Treehouse Hotel and the imminent Mollie’s Manchester bring playful, lifestyle-led experiences that resonate with modern delegates. Boutique properties like Dakota Manchester City Centre and newer builds such as the Maldron Manchester Cathedral Quarter further expand the city’s offering across price points and styles.
And in sport, the announcement that the NBA will host its first-ever regular season game in Manchester in 2027 reinforces the city’s global draw. As Councillor Bev Craig noted, Manchester is now firmly on the map for world-class events.
The momentum is undeniable. For corporate event planners, this translates into opportunity to align with a city that is investing, innovating, and inspiring. At Bien Venue, we’re encouraging businesses to embrace this moment, whether through local partnerships, high-profile venues, or international appeal.
There’s never been a better time to host your event in Manchester!