Everything you need to know before the big day
Date: Friday 11th September 2026
Venue: National Conference Centre
Coventry Rd, Bickenhill, Hampton in Arden, Solihull B92 0EJ
Sponsor information
If you are a sponsor please send us your 30 second marketing videos by clicking on the button below and sending them to events@kick-startpublishing.co.uk
Schedule
10:00 – Networking Morning
Coffee, pastries, networking, and exhibition stands open.
12:00 – Drinks Reception
Prosecco, drinks, and canapés served.
12:30 – Call for Lunch
Guests invited through to the main awards suite.
12:45 – Welcome Introduction
Opening welcome from the editor and event team. Includes silent auction introduction, charity introduction, and starters served.
13:00 – Special Achievement Awards
Celebrating outstanding contributions within the industry.
13:30 – Lunch Service
Main course served with networking and sponsor recognition.
14:30 – VIP Guest Speaker & Comedian
Entertainment and keynote session.
14:50 – Desserts Served
15:00 – Main Awards Ceremony Begins
Winners announced live on stage.
16:00 / 16:30 – Awards Ceremony Ends
Networking drinks begin.
19:00 – Event Ends
Photography & videography
Official photographers and videographers will be capturing content throughout the day.
This content may be used across:
- Contract Flooring Journal
- Social media
- Website coverage
- Post-event marketing
- Awards features
Dress code
The CFJ Awards are a premium industry celebration, so guests are encouraged to dress smartly for the occasion.
Not black tie.
Congratulations on being shortlisted for the 2026 CFJ Awards. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to one of the flooring industry’s biggest celebrations — bringing together contractors, manufacturers, distributors, specifiers, and suppliers from across the sector for a full day of networking, recognition and entertainment.
Below is everything you need to know ahead of the event.
What to expect
The CFJ Awards attracts hundreds of senior professionals from across the flooring industry.
You’ll have the opportunity to connect with:
- Manufacturers
- Contractors
- Distributors
- Specifiers
- Suppliers
- Industry associations
- Existing and potential client
Trophies
As we reflect on our environmental impact we have decided to reduce the amount of waste from our event.
Therefore, this year we will only be providing a trophy to the organisations who entered the project into the awards. This will reduce the number of trophies which often go uncollected.
If you are a contributing manufacturer/contractor, you will have the opportunity to order a duplicate after the awards.
Thank you for helping us improve our sustainability!
Dietary requirements
If you or any of your guests have dietary requirements, please email events@kick-startpublishing.co.uk detailing the name(s) of your guest(s) and their specific dietary requirement. Please ensure you email this information by Friday 14th August 2026.
Pre-order drinks
Recommended hotel accommodation
Top tips for the day
Arrive Early
The morning networking session is one of the best opportunities to:
- Meet new contacts
- Visit sponsors
- Speak with industry peers before the ceremony begins
Bring Business Cards
Many attendees treat the event as an important networking opportunity.
Share Your Experience on Social Media
Don’t forget to:
- Post photos
- Tag project partners
- Celebrate your shortlist
- Share any wins live on the day
Most Importantly…
Enjoy the day.
The CFJ Awards are about celebrating the incredible projects, people, innovation, and achievements across the flooring industry — and being shortlisted is already a fantastic achievement.
We look forward to celebrating with you in September at the 2026 CFJ Awards
