The British Ports Association (BPA), the trade body representing ports and harbours across the UK, has today opened nominations for its annual industry Awards programme, celebrating excellence across the sector. This year’s categories span port development, sustainability and inclusivity, reflecting the industry’s evolving priorities and achievements.
Open to organisations of all sizes, the 2026 Awards showcase the breadth and diversity of the UK ports sector. The BPA represents more than 400 ports, harbours and marine terminals, which together handle 86% of the nation’s maritime traffic.
The deadline for submissions is close of business on Friday 17 July. Entries will be judged by an independent panel over the summer, with winners announced at the BPA Annual Conference Gala Dinner in Dover this October.
The award categories are Port Development; Sustainability; Inclusive Workplace; BPA Industry Award; SME Port of the Year; and Exceptional Contribution.
These Awards proudly celebrate the ambition, innovation and outstanding achievements shaping today’s ports sector. From transformative port development and leadership in sustainability, to fostering inclusive workplaces and recognising exceptional contributions, they showcase the very best of our industry. At a time of economic pressure, this is an opportunity to shine a positive light on the sector. It is an exciting range of categories, and we look forward to seeing the breadth of nominations.
We warmly invite nominations from across the sector and look forward to honouring organisations and individuals who are driving progress, supporting communities and strengthening the vital role ports play in the UK’s economy. The Awards feature a strong mix of categories for all types of ports, as well as recognition for those who supply services to the industry. We will also celebrate the achievements of a standout individual, and we encourage everyone to get involved and submit their nominations.
BPA Awards Categories
Port Development Award 2026
The BPA Port Development Award recognises a port that has demonstrated excellence in the planning, design, construction, and delivery of a development project.
The award highlights initiatives that have built new infrastructure, enhanced port estates, increased capacity or efficiency, stimulated port activity, or contributed to economic growth. Eligible projects may include new infrastructure developments, expansion of existing facilities, technological upgrades, environmental sustainability initiatives, or improvements in operational performance.
Port Sustainability Award 2026
The BPA Port Sustainability Award recognises a port, harbour, marine facility, project or employee that has delivered meaningful environmental initiatives.
This may include actions such as reducing emissions, implementing sustainable operational changes, promoting biodiversity, or improving habitats. Entries will not be assessed purely on the total emissions reduced, but rather on the pace of change, tangible action taken, and the extent to which sustainability is embedded across port activities.
Inclusive Workplace Award 2026
The BPA Inclusive Workplace Award recognises a port, harbour, or marine facility that has demonstrated a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion within its workplace culture.
Eligible initiatives may include policies, programmes, training, recruitment practices, employee support systems, or community engagement that promote equal opportunities and foster a diverse and inclusive working environment.
BPA Industry Award 2026
The BPA Industry Award recognises organisations that work with ports and have made a significant impact on the sector. The award is open to BPA Associate Members that are not port operators themselves but provide services or support to the industry.
Entries should demonstrate high standards of work, innovation, and practical solutions delivered for port clients. This may include advisory or consultancy services, equipment supply, infrastructure design or development, environmental solutions, or other forms of support that have benefited the UK ports sector.
SME Port of the Year Award 2026
The BPA SME Port of the Year Award is open to small and medium-sized port enterprises that have demonstrated notable achievements.
This may include improving operational efficiency, delivering successful development projects, engaging effectively with stakeholders, strengthening customer relationships, or contributing to the growth and success of the wider ports sector.
Exceptional Contribution Award 2026
The Exceptional Contribution Award recognises an individual or team that has demonstrated outstanding dedication, innovation, and impact within their organisation or the wider ports community.
Recipients will have gone beyond their normal responsibilities, making a significant contribution to advancing organisational goals, strengthening collaboration, or solving complex challenges. Their efforts will have made a lasting difference and set a high standard of excellence and commitment.
Further information and details of how to apply are available on the BPA’s website here.