Manchester's BRIT Awards relocation guaranteed by Co-op Live agreement
In a historic move, the BRIT Awards, one of the UK's most prestigious music events, will be held at Co-op Live in Manchester for the years 2026 and 2027. This shift marks the first time in 48 years that the awards will be held outside London, signifying an important cultural shift towards recognising music scenes across the UK.
The decision by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), the organisation that oversees the BRIT Awards, reflects a commitment to broadening the event’s profile and recognising Manchester as an important cultural and musical powerhouse. Co-op Live, as the UK’s biggest indoor arena with excellent capacity and modern facilities, also provided a strong alternative to the O2 Arena in London.
Guy Dunstan, SVP & GM of Co-op Live, expressed confidence that there will be opportunities to celebrate Manchester’s music heritage in the BRITs show. He stated, "This deal underlines the venue’s success so far and is great for the profile of the city."
The move brings significant economic benefits to Manchester and highlights the city’s ability to host major events of this scale. Co-op Live, a joint-venture between Oak View Group and City Football Group, passed a million visitors within 10 months of its May 2024 launch.
Iconic, world-famous artists have praised the acoustics at Co-op Live following their performances. The line-up of artists who have graced its stage includes Bruce Springsteen, Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, Robbie Williams, and many others. The MTV EMAs were also held at Co-op Live, demonstrating the venue’s capacity to deliver large-scale events.
Oak View Group had targeted the BRITs as a key event for Co-op Live even before its construction. BPI CEO Dr Jo Twist said the move to Manchester will add to its rich musical legacy. She stated, "Manchester’s exceptional musical heritage and its status as a powerhouse of British creativity make it the perfect home for the BRIT Awards."
A photo shows Dr Jo Twist, Bev Craig, Jason Iley, Jessica Koravos, Andy Burnham, Roel de Vries, YolanDa Brown OBE DL, and Guy Dunstan together, possibly marking the announcement of the BRITs move to Manchester.
The BRITs move celebrates Manchester’s exceptional musical heritage and its status as a powerhouse of British creativity. This relocation is set to showcase the UK’s artistic energy beyond London, further solidifying Manchester’s position as a major player in the global music scene.
[1] The Guardian. (2025, March 1). The BRIT Awards to move to Manchester for 2026 and 2027. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/mar/01/brit-awards-to-move-to-manchester-for-2026-and-2027
[2] BBC News. (2025, March 1). The BRIT Awards to leave London for first time in 48 years. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-57457587
[3] Manchester Evening News. (2025, March 1). Why the BRIT Awards are moving to Manchester. Retrieved from https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/brit-awards-manchester-co-op-live-22886604
The BRIT Awards, known for being one of the UK's most prestigious music events, will showcase Manchester's exceptional musical heritage for the years 2026 and 2027, marking a significant cultural shift in recognising the city as a powerful force in the UK's music scene. Co-op Live, a venue renowned for its excellent capacity and modern facilities, will host this historic move, providing opportunities to celebrate Manchester's music heritage.
The decision by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) to move the awards to Manchester signifies a commitment to broadening the event's profile and recognising the city's status as a major player in the global music scene, further solidifying its position as an important cultural and musical powerhouse.
