Meet us in Manchester! MEET UP North 2026

Taking place on 18^th March at Brickhouse Social in one of Manchester’s most bustling neighbourhoods, hoteliers, designers, architects, and suppliers will unite for a vibrant evening of conversation, contemplation, and connection.

More than simply an opportunity to network over a few drinks, MEET UP North is known for bringing lively debates and insight from its moderated panel discussions, and this year we’re proud to host a line-up of brilliant design minds to shine a light on technology in our talk: Embracing Design Tech in Hospitality.

This year’s audience is in for a treat as they gather to hear how technology can be integrated into hospitality spaces in a way that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the human experience. Moderated by SPACE Editor, Jess Miles, and accompanied by speakers Imogen Woodage, Associate Director, SpaceInvader, Leanne Armstrong, Creative Director, Black Ivy Design, and Afsaneh Mehrai, Founder, Mehrai Design, the panel will unpack the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies, from AI‑driven design tools to guest‑facing innovations that elevate comfort, efficiency, and personalisation.

While the panel sets the tone for the evening, MEET UP North is equally known for its atmosphere: informal, energetic, and intentionally curated to encourage conversation. During the evening, guests can expect a design-led networking environment with complimentary drinks and street-food-style catering in a room filled with specifiers, decision makers, and creative leaders and the opportunity to connect and build relationships that will influence future collaborations.

The hospitality industry is entering a period of renewed investment and innovation. As hotels rethink their spaces, balancing sustainability, technology, and guest experience. suppliers and designers alike are seeking partners who understand the direction of travel.

MEET UP North provides the space to exchange ideas, sense‑check emerging trends, and build the relationships that underpin successful projects. It’s a chance to step away from the day‑to‑day and reconnect with the wider community driving the sector forward. Weren’t at last year’s event? Here’s what you missed out on at MEET UP North 2025.

With just two weeks to go, the countdown is on. Whether you’re looking to spark new collaborations, gain insight into the future of design tech, or simply reconnect with peers, MEET UP North is set to be one of the most valuable industry evenings of the season.

If you haven’t yet secured your place at the event, there are still tickets available. For hoteliers, designers, investors, and architects, order yours here, and for suppliers, manufacturers, and pr reps, order yours here.

A bit about this year’s sponsor:

We are delighted to be partnering with Atkinson & Kirby this year. A family founded business established in 1903, the team remains closely connected and committed to craftsmanship and innovation in wood flooring.

Sustainability is central to the company’s ethos, and in 2024 the team were honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise for excellence in Sustainable Development, which is testament to their dedication to responsible timber sourcing and current transition to 100% renewable energy with a pledge to reach Net Zero by 2050 in conjunction with Planet Mark and the UN’s Race to Zero campaign.