On June 17 2025, BII (British Institute of Innkeeping) hosted its annual Summer Event at the Honourable Artillery Company in London. As a Trusted Partner of the BII, BIIAB was delighted to attend this vibrant gathering honouring excellence in licensed retail. From networking sessions to the prestigious Licensee of the Year Award, this day celebrates local pubs, their teams, suppliers, and the communities they serve.
The event also provided a crucial opportunity for the Chair of BII, Mark Robson, to highlight the key issues currently affecting the hospitality sector, which is facing significant financial pressures. Pubs are facing soaring staff costs, driven by increases in the National Living Wage, National Insurance contributions, and the fierce competition for skilled labour. This not only impacts payroll but also necessitates investment in retention strategies and training for existing staff. The rising costs of food and drink continue to squeeze already tight margins, forcing many establishments to consider price increases, which can further deter customers in a cost-of-living crisis.
Celebrating Excellence Amidst Challenges
The event is also an opportunity for celebration, particularly the prestigious Licensee of the Year Award. This year BII received over 500 nominations, resulting in a tough judging process to select six inspiring finalists. Their stories highlighted the dedication, community impact, and remarkable resilience in the sector. BII CEO Steven Alton celebrated these licensees for their invaluable contributions to their communities and local economies.
Networking and Shared Vision
The event was also a fantastic networking opportunity, fostering connections and discussions about the future of UK hospitality. As Mark Fulton, Wadworth Operations Director, enthused, it was “another ridiculously fun day… so many friendly faces… brilliant opportunity to catch up and make new connections.”
QX Global Group brought their team to “talk strategy, resilience, and what’s next for UK hospitality,” while Darren Jackson summed it up as “an awesome day… the sun was out and it was great to see so many incredible pub operators.”
Kaye Jackson, Director of Business Growth and Engagement at Skills and Education Group and BIIAB, said:
“It has been a wonderful day with many passionate people! The licensed trade and hospitality sectors are currently experiencing a particularly challenging time, so it was uplifting to celebrate the Licensee of the Year Award 2025, and Three Horseshoes is a well-deserved winner.”
The day was one of celebration amongst the challenges faced by the sector, which reinforces the need for ensuring a skilled and future ready workforce.
Today highlights the resilience and passion within the hospitality sector, alongside the challenges ahead. BIIAB is dedicated to helping the sector upskill, adapt, and build resilience for the future through our accessible and relevant training and qualifications. We empower individuals and businesses in the licensed retail sector to overcome obstacles, whether it's through our licensing qualifications, management training, or programmes focused on efficient stock control and cost management.
LOYA Winners and the Power of Community
Congratulations to Mike Dove & Tommy Higgs from Three Horseshoes, who were crowned the deserving LOYA winners! Hospitality Rewards shared a heartfelt tribute to all the finalists:
- Janice Blacklock & Amanda Buchanan – The Border Terrier
- Harry Seccombe & Geoff Popple – Chaplin’s and The Cellar Bar
- Mark Annear & Anton Fraser – The Cott Inn
- Mickey Foden Andrews – The Swan
- Jon Howard – The Wykeham Arms
BII’s Summer Event 2025 was a moment to spotlight resilience, make connections, and advocate for Britain’s pubs. Well done to the winners, the finalists, the organisers, sponsors, and every attendee who raised a glass to community, excellence, and supported their local pub.
We’re already looking forward to 2026 and to continuing our work with the BII to support a thriving and highly skilled pub sector.
Take a look at our Licensed Hospitality Qualifications here.