The 2026 BRIT Awards were a huge moment for Manchester, with the iconic ceremony being held in February at the Co-Op Live Arena.
The stats show that it generated 250 million organic views and saw a 275% increase in social activity when compared to the year before.
Tickets were given away to lucky Mancunians
One of the biggest things that helped to drive hype for the BRIT Awards is the fact that free tickets were given away. This makes perfect sense when you consider how impactful giveaways can be. Manchester is no stranger to this type of policy either.
The Manchester Writing Competition offers substantial literary prizes, and the Greene King Untapped competition is also popular. A VIP Coronation Street tour giveaway has also happened recently, with £500 cash included.
In other entertainment verticals, like iGaming, giveaways are also common. Some gamified promotions offer the chance to claim free spins daily. Promotions like this offer 60 free spins, with an additional 100 free spins awarded if players deposit £10.
As giveaways are so big right now, it’s no surprise that the BRIT Awards put a focus on free tickets this year. To enter, all people had to do was go to their local Co-Op Food Group store, of which there are 28 in Manchester alone, according to this site. People who were Co-Op members then had to scan their membership card and pay using a valid Mastercard. By doing so, they were entered into a draw to win VIP tickets to the event.
Manchester’s BRIT Award boom
After the BRIT Awards, it’s clear that Manchester got a huge economic boost. The event resulted in a significant trade increase for hotels and restaurants in the area.
Local talent was shown at the event, and substantial revenue was brought in for independent businesses. Anticipated increased footfall also resulted in various events taking place across the city, at venues like New Century Hall.
Economic benefits also went beyond the main venue to places like the Northern Quarter. A city-wide art trail, done by Stanley Chow, showcased some of the artists in the North West, with exhibitions done by Brian Cannon as well. Not only did this showcase over 30 years of artwork, but it also put the spotlight on local artists.
It has recently been announced that Manchester will again host the BRIT Awards in 2027, which will be the 50th anniversary of the show.
For the last 48 years, the event has been held in London, but directors wanted to take an opportunity to explore music outside the capital and to embrace a wider pool of musical talent.
Organisers also wanted to encourage a new, creative direction for the show. As Manchester has proven time and time again that it’s able to host global events, and with the Co-op Arena having such strong infrastructure and a technologically advanced setup, the move made perfect sense. Sony Music UK, who are now running the event, have said that Manchester marks a new era for the awards show, with the potential to host the event for many years to come.
Featured image credit: Engin Akyurt via Pexels
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