BCB London returns with Local Heroes and refreshed education programme

BCB London has appointed London bartender and hospitality consultant Elliot Ball as Director of Education for the 2026 show. In the role, Ball will oversee the strategy, structure, curation and delivery of the entire education programme, ensuring it reflects the realities, challenges and ambitions of today’s bar industry.

Working closely with the BCB London team, Ball will:

• Define key themes, formats, industry trends and future-focused topics
• Curate a diverse, high-calibre lineup of speakers and contributors
• Shape sessions spanning keynotes, panels, workshops and practical learning

As co-founder of The Cocktail Trading Co, HM’s, Filthy XIII, Murder Inc. and Royal Cocktail Exchange, Ball brings deep experience across bartending, systems design and training, with a distinctive focus on the psychology of enjoyment, satisfaction and growth in hospitality.

Jack Sotti, BCB London’s brand ambassador, said: “Bringing BCB London back for a second year feels like a real statement. The response from the trade in year one demonstrated there is a genuine appetite for a show that speaks directly to the international bar and beverage community – and 2026 gives us the chance to build on that energy and do even more.”

Petra Lassahn, BCB Director, added: “Launching BCB London taught us a great deal, from timing and logistics to what the UK and wider international market really wants from a trade show. What became very clear is that BCB London is not another version of Berlin. Each show serves a different market and purpose, and both have a valuable role to play. We are convinced there is a real need for both shows, each with its own identity, and London has firmly earned its place in the BCB calendar.”

BCB London 2026 will take place at Tobacco Dock on 11 to 12 May. Further details on exhibitors, education programming and feature areas will be announced in due course.