Bookings have opened for the 2026 ALBUM Conference, which will return to Blackpool in May 2026.
This year’s theme is the “evolving challenges and opportunities” in the bus industry. The event will be hosted by Blackpool Transport at The Village Hotel from 11-13 May. Delegates who book before the end of December can access early-bird discounts: ALBUM member rates are set at £290 for the conference and rise to £320 thereafter. Non-members can attend for £330 during the offer period compared to the usual £360.
Organisers say to expect a refreshed format for 2026. Proceedings will open on the Monday evening with a “Blackpool Extravaganza” followed by two days of conference sessions and supplier engagement on 12-13 May. The Gala Dinner will move to Tuesday evening, enabling delegates to leave earlier after sessions conclude on Wednesday afternoon. Golfers will be able to join the ALBUM Golf Day at Heron’s Reach before the main event from 1000-1600hrs on 11 May.
Delegate pricing has been restructured with reduced rates for those attending the full Tuesday-Wednesday programme and frozen charges for networking events including golf, the welcome event and the Gala Dinner.
40 stands are available for suppliers, for which bookings have also opened. Prices start at £1,000 for ALBUM members and £1,150 for non-members. A range of sponsorship packages will follow.
Jane Cole, Blackpool Transport Managing Director says: “We can’t wait to welcome the ALBUM Conference back to Blackpool to discuss the challenges our industry continues to face. We’re excited to introduce a new conference format too, which responds to feedback from suppliers and operators on maximising the opportunities at conference, starting with the Blackpool Extravaganza welcoming people to our town on the Monday evening.”
Adds David Astill, ALBUM Chair: “We’re excited to be returning to Blackpool for our ALBUM Conference in 2026, in what promises to be a great opportunity to discuss the impact of recent legislative changes.
“ALBUM is very appreciative of the generous support of industry suppliers, who we look forward to welcoming as sponsors and exhibitors in Blackpool. We recognise the financial pressures the bus industry is facing and is pleased to be able to offer reduced attendance rates for two day delegates compared to last year, with further savings available for early birds booking before the end of this year.”
