Pub operators receive gongs at MCA Hospitality Awards

MCA Hospitality Awards 2025 winners unveiled
Sector celebrated: the awards are nominated and voted upon by a special academy (MCA)

A number of pub operators were named as winners at this year’s MCA Hospitality Awards.

The ceremony, which took place on Thursday 13 March at The Guildhall, London, celebrated the very best concepts, individuals and deals in the UK eating and drinking out sector.

Mission Mars' Albert’s Schloss in Soho, London took the title of Best New Opening while Best Pub or Bar Concept was presented to the Devonshire, also in Soho.

Award winners

Urban Pubs & Bars were named Best Pub Company and the multiple operator’s division director Ben Atkinson won the award or Rising Star

Furthermore, Flight Club was awarded Best Experiential Concept while Clive Watson was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

MCA editor Finn Scott-Delany said: “Wholehearted congratulations to all our winners and nominees.

“All the businesses shortlisted should be applauded for the huge contribution they make, not just to the economy, but in shaping the experiences and memories of millions of gests who talk through their doors each year.”

Prosperous future

He added: “These awards celebrate the innovation, resilience and accomplishments that define this fantastic and always evolving industry.

“What makes them even more special is the nominations and the final decisions are voted for by the leaders entrepreneurs and key partners who make hospitality tick.

“A warm thank you to everyone for their support and contribution to this dynamic and vibrant sector. Here’s to a bright and prosperous future.”

The winners in full:

Emerging concept

Brother Marcus

Best New Opening

Albert’s Schloss, Soho

Best Pub Company

Urban Pubs & Bars

Best Pub or Bar Concept

The Devonshire, Soho, London

Best Restaurant Company

Pizza Pilgrims

Best Coffee Shop/Café Group

Gail’s

Best Experiential Concept

Flight Club

Deal of the Year

TDR Capital acquires controlling stake in Popeyes

Consumer Choice

Greggs

Best Use of technology

Stonegate’s media platform and app MiXR

Best Omnichannel

Wagamama - for its Soul Club loyalty app, optimised delivery business and retail range

Best QSR Company

Wingstop UK

Lifetime Achievement Award

Clive Watson

Leader of the Year

Roisin Currie, Greggs

Rising Star

Ben Atkinson, division director of Urban Pubs & Bars

Sustainability Award

Wahaca

Diversity Leadership Programme

Caravan