On February 3rd, the international pool and spa industry met at the Coventry Building Society Arena. The British Pool & Hot Tub Awards 2026 marked one of the key moments of the year. The evening brought together manufacturers, contractors and retailers. It also welcomed many decision makers from the wet leisure sector.
The event was organised by SPATA and BISHTA. It took place during SPATEX 2026. As a result, the ceremony gained strong visibility across the professional market. Moreover, it confirmed the growing role of the UK within the European pool and spa industry.
A professional evening focused on excellence
The Industry Gala Evening has become a key date for professionals. Each year, the sector meets to share experience. It is also a time to recognize strong projects. In addition, the event helps to build new partnerships.
This edition welcomed Anna Hopkin as Guest of Honour. Her career reflects long term commitment and discipline. Therefore, her presence gave a strong message to the industry. Performance remains a shared value across sport and construction.
Key winners shaping the pool and spa market
The 2026 winners highlight current market priorities. First, quality design remains essential. However, technical performance is now just as critical. Safety and compliance also play a central role.
Outstanding Pool of the Year was awarded to Asher Swimpool Centre
(SPATA Member). The project combines clean design with strong engineering. As a result, it reflects the demand for premium pool projects.
Pool Contractor of the Year went to Centurion Leisure
(SPATA Member). The company stands out for consistent delivery. Moreover, its technical standards remain high over time.
The UK Innovation Award recognised Aqua Blue Designs. The project focuses on user safety. Therefore, innovation is now closely linked to risk prevention.
Retail Excellence was awarded to All Swim. The company invests in service quality. In addition, it develops strong customer relationships.
The Pool and Spa Star of the Year award went to Maddison Exell from XL Pools. This distinction highlights personal involvement. It also reflects the importance of team commitment.
The Hot Tubs and Cold Therapy Spas Change Lives Award recognised Hot Tub Suppliers. The project shows real wellbeing benefits. Consequently, hydrotherapy gains new relevance for the market.
What the 2026 awards reveal about the market
Several trends stand out this year. First, design quality remains a strong differentiator. However, durability now carries more weight. In addition, safety standards influence many buying decisions. Innovation also evolves. It now supports reliability and long term performance. As a result, product development strategies are changing. Manufacturers focus more on tested solutions. Contractors also seek easier maintenance.
Retail models continue to change. Customer experience matters more than before. Therefore, professional advice becomes a key asset. Training and after sales service gain importance. This trend strengthens long term client relationships. For international professionals, the UK market offers useful benchmarks. It shows how standards continue to rise. Moreover, certification and compliance shape purchasing criteria. As a result, quality labels gain strategic value.
In the end, market leaders combine several strengths. They invest in innovation. They secure technical reliability. They structure their commercial approach. This balanced model supports sustainable growth across the pool and spa industry.
