The Independent Hotel Show, in partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers, has unveiled its 2026 seminar programme, bringing together leading hoteliers and experts from across hospitality, design, technology, travel and marketing.
Taking place at Olympia on 5-6 October, the event will offer two days of practical insight and industry discussion across the Hotel Business Stage, in partnership with eviivo, designed by Merav Bustan Design; the Innovation Stage, in partnership with Agilysys, designed by Obradov Studio; and the Social Business Space, in partnership with Zennio, designed by Design Command.
Reflecting the show’s 2026 theme, ‘Shaping Tomorrow’, the programme will examine how independent hoteliers can respond to changing guest expectations, commercial pressures and emerging technology while retaining the character and individuality that set their properties apart.
On the Hotel Business Stage, STR’s Michal Rao will examine the factors driving hotel performance across the UK and Europe, while Allen Simpson, CEO of UKHospitality, will join Boutique Hotel News Editor Eloise Hanson for a fireside chat exploring impending tourist taxes and their implications for hoteliers.
Further discussions will address profitable food and beverage operations, sustainability, automation and the relationship between refurbishment and asset value. Edward Adshead of Wotton House Hotel and Thomas Greenall of Bespoke Hotels will consider how independent properties can retain their identity when operating within a management company.
A series of focused 10-minute Power Hour presentations will provide practical advice on capital allowances, AI and location data, multigenerational digital strategies, sensory branding and using a hospitality business to support an owner’s wider ambitions. Simon Numphud of AA Media will also explain how properties can make the most of AA accreditation.
The Innovation Stage will look at the ideas and expectations shaping the future of hospitality. Davin Reid-Montanaro of Agility Research and Strategy will explore the evolving behaviour of UK luxury travellers, while Marie-France Perrel of the MICHELIN Guide will lead a discussion on the forces influencing luxury travel today.
The programme will also consider how hotels can prepare for the next generation of travellers, with speakers including Nuno César de Sá of Grantley Hall and Rose Webb of Clermont Hotel Group.
Design will form another central strand of the Innovation Stage programme. A panel moderated by Vicky Doe of Hospitality Interiors will explore the future of flexible hotel spaces, featuring Ben Harper of Watergate Bay Hotel, Another Place and SeaSpace; Francesca Toman of Ches & Co; Jordan Parke of Wayfair Professional; and Matt Hulme of Dynargh Design.
Further sessions will examine interiors for wellbeing, artificial intelligence, social media, team empowerment and the commercial and cultural impact smaller independent hotels can achieve.
The Social Business Space will offer practical sessions and workshops focused on the everyday challenges of operating a hotel and leading its people.
Hospitality Action’s Camila Woods will deliver a session designed to help managers build confidence around mental health, while another discussion will examine how investing in talent can strengthen guest experiences and support business growth.
The programme will also address accessible hospitality design, marketing, meetings and events, energy reduction and additional revenue opportunities. Shonali Devereaux of The Meetings Industry Association will explore how properties can build business beyond bedrooms, while Ryan Haynes of Haynes MarComs will examine opportunities to protect margins and generate additional revenue before guests arrive.
The first day will culminate in the Independent Hotel Show Awards 2026, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, recognising the people, properties and design projects making an outstanding contribution to the UK’s independent luxury hotel sector.
Independent Hotel Show London takes place on 5-6 October at Olympia. Register for your free trade ticket at independenthotelshow.co.uk.
