Pubs and bars
Heartwood Inns was named Best Pub Company, reflecting the strength of its pubs with rooms strategy built around historic inns and seasonal food.
Meanwhile, Bavarian beerhall inspired Albert’s Schloss continued its winning streak at MCA’s flagship event, picking up Best Pub or Bar Concept.
Punch Pubs & Co head of operations Hayley Patterson also received the Rising Star award. Judged by a panel that included UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls and former Hawksmoor chief growth and culture officer Ceri Gott, Patterson was praised for her “limitless” potential, authentic leadership style and drive to improve pub partnerships at the group.
The final accolade of the evening, the Lifetime Achievement award, went to Fuller’s executive chairman Simon Emeny.
Emeny, who was the first non family member to take the reins at the 180 year old brewer and pub operator, was recognised for his focus on modernisation and premiumisation, investing in food led pubs and hotels and expanding the business outside London through strategic acquisitions.
Stepping into the executive chairman role last year, Emeny previously spent 12 years as chief executive and seven years before that as managing director of the group.
Other winners
Elsewhere on the night, Flat Iron was one of the standout winners as the affordable steakhouse brand continues to buck the trend in the casual dining market.
Showing the strength of sticking to its core proposition of one hero product done exceptionally well, the McWin and TriSpan backed group scooped Best Restaurant Company.
In a surprise win, healthy field to tray concept Farmer J saw off competition from several fast growing chicken brands to win Best QSR Company.
Meanwhile, WatchHouse rose to the top of a strong field to take the Best Coffee Shop or Bakery Operator award.
Opening proceedings, Dave’s Hot Chicken triumphed in the Emerging Concept category, highlighting continued demand for chicken focused brands entering the UK market following its launch here by Azzurri Group.
Arc Inspirations’ London debut BOX Piccadilly was named Best New Opening following its launch on Shaftesbury Avenue.
Deal of the Year went to Dishoom, which secured backing from L Catterton in a transaction valuing the Bombay inspired restaurant group at £300m and supporting further expansion in the UK and US.
Pizza Pilgrims picked up two awards, winning both Best Use of Tech and the Sustainability Award.
The pizzeria group was recognised for its “happier world” ethos, with environmental and social initiatives forming a core part of the business. Judges also praised its internal communication platform, designed to improve collaboration and engagement across its workforce.
In a new category for 2026, Best Hotel Group went to The Pig collection for its country house hotels and distinctive accommodation.
Another new award, the International Expansion Award, recognising UK hospitality brands making an impact overseas, went to Hawksmoor for its continued growth in the US market.
Leader of the Year saw a heavyweight shortlist including Greene King chief executive Nick Mackenzie, Loungers chairman Alex Reilley and Azzurri Group chief executive Steve Holmes.
However, it was Caravan chief executive and co founder Laura Harper Hinton who took the title.
Her business has been credited with pioneering Antipodean all day dining and speciality coffee culture in the UK.
Across all categories, nominations and winners were voted for by an MCA database of sector leaders, subscribers and key suppliers.
“These awards celebrate the innovation, resilience and accomplishments that define this fantastic and always evolving industry,” said MCA editor Finn Scott-Delany.
“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 guests who walk through their doors each year.
“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.”
Full list of winners
- Emerging Concept - Dave’s Hot Chicken – sponsored by Greene King
- Best New Opening – BOX piccadilly – sponsored by Chapman Ventilation
- Best Pub Company – Heartwood Inns – sponsored by Aspall Cyder
- Best Bar or Pub Concept – Albert’s Schloss
- Best Coffee Shop or Bakery Operator – WatchHouse – sponsored by Dojo
- Best Restaurant Company – Flat Iron – sponsored by Sona
- Deal of the year – Dishoom backed by L Catterton - sponsored by AlixPartners
- Best Use of Tech – Pizza Pilgrims – sponsored by Nory
- Best QSR Brand – Farmer J – sponsored by Venners
- Best Hotel Group – The Pig
- International Expansion Award – Hawksmoor - sponsored by Deliverect
- Leader – Laura Harper-Hinton – sponsored by UberEats
- Diversity Leadership Programme - Incipio Group – sponsored by Carlsberg Britvic
- Rising Star - Hayley Patterson, head of operations, Punch Pubs & Co
- Sustainability Award - Pizza Pilgrims – sponsored by Pernod Ricard
- Lifetime Achievement - Simon Emeny, executive chairman, Fuller's – sponsored by Brakes
