Lumina Intelligence’s Category Management & Insight Awards 2026 cast a spotlight onto the unsung heroes whose expertise is shaping category growth, commercial strategy and decision-making across retail, hospitality and beyond.
Open to all UK-focused food and drink businesses, the awards recognise the teams and individuals who transform data, consumer understanding and market insight into measurable commercial impact. They are also the only UK programme dedicated exclusively category management and insight.
Building on strong momentum from its inaugural year, the 2026 edition introduces new categories and opens participation across the full value chain, from grocery retail to hospitality and nutrition. The programme reflects the growing importance of insight-led thinking in navigating an increasingly complex market landscape.
What’s new for 2026
- Dedicated Retail and Out of Home categories for Data & Insight and Customer Collaboration
- Introduction of the Positive Consumer Impact Award
- Continued focus on innovation, technology and emerging talent
At its core, the programme aims to give long-overdue recognition to the professionals working behind the scenes: those translating insight into action and delivering meaningful, measurable outcomes for their businesses and customers.
Finalists will be announced in September, with winners revealed at a live awards event in London on 12 November 2026, bringing together industry leaders to celebrate excellence and innovation.
Entries open on 18 May and close on 31 July 2026.
