The Brit Awards are officially coming to Manchester's Co-op Live arena in 2026. Here's how Manchester-based brands can make the most of this through social media marketing, local activations and community-led storytelling.
June 12, 2025
Studio
Exciting news for Manchester. The Brit Awards, Britain’s flagship music celebration, has been one of high points for London’s music calendar for almost half a century, but the Brit awards have confirmed that they will be choosing to ditch the capital and relocate it up North next year.
The Brit Awards will mark their 50th anniversary at Manchester’s Co-op Live in 2026 and 2027, part of a bold move to reinvigorate the show, according to organisers.
Organisers say bringing the Brits to the birthplace of the Haçienda and Factory Records "perfectly captures the show’s raw energy and iconic spirit."
“Moving to Manchester, the home of some of the most iconic and defining artists of our lifetime, will invigorate the show and build on the Brits legacy of celebrating and reinvesting in world-class music”.
But what does this mean for Manchester? Local businesses? Economy?
The Brit Awards moving to Manchester isn’t just a win for music fans, it’s a strategic coup for the city’s entire ecosystem. From the hospitality sector to Manchester-based fashion brands, creators to local businesses, the knock-on effects will be powerful, and for those prepared, highly profitable.
All eyes will be on Manchester.
With the Brits' 50th anniversary being broadcast live from Co-op Live, millions of viewers plus international media, influencers, and music industry royalty, will have their eyes on the city. This is Manchester’s moment to showcase not just its music credentials, but its innovation, style, and business energy on a global scale.
There will be a large boost to the local economy.
Co-op Live is already delivering for the region. Since opening, it has added over £1.3 billion in turnover to the UK economy, with a large share of that directly benefiting local restaurants, bars, hotels and suppliers. When the Brits roll into the city centre, this surge will only accelerate.
Expect an uptick in tourism, job creation across events and services, and increased investment interest in Manchester as a serious cultural capital. If you're running a business here this is your time.
Just think of unmissable social media moments for your brand and the Brits.
For brands, this is more than a one-night event. The run-up to the Brits will be loaded with cultural noise and that means opportunity. Smart social media marketing will allow Manchester businesses to plug into the buzz with creative campaigns that connect.
Whether it’s limited-edition drops, OOH, Brits-inspired menus in local restaurants, AR filters for selfie spots, or partnerships with local artists and influencers, there’s huge scope for memorable, moment-led marketing that drives awareness and revenue.
The big brands will be on the search for partnerships and sponsorships which just make sense.
Major brands will be looking north, seeking local collaborators, authentic spaces and regional talent to anchor their presence in Manchester. For creatives, entrepreneurs and business owners, this is your signal to step forward and make yourself known.
Now’s the time to sharpen your digital footprint, refresh your Google listings, and map out content plans that align with the Brit Awards timeline. It’s not just about turning up in February 2026, it’s about setting the narrative early, owning the spotlight on the night, and staying in the conversation long after the final encore.
This isn’t just about a music awards show relocating, it’s a cultural and commercial opportunity for Manchester to stake its claim as the UK’s creative powerhouse. The Brit Awards coming to Co-op Live will bring energy, attention and economic uplift and local brands have a front-row seat to benefit.
Want your brand to take centre stage? At Serotonin, we build social-first campaigns that connect brands to culture. Get in touch with us today and see how we can help.
