Events in Manchester

Unveiling the Mischief for the Festive Season The Elves Behavin' Badly Festive Trade Showcase is an exclusive B2B product exhibition held at our headquarters in Basildon, Essex. Designed specifically for retail buyers, seasonal merchandisers, and event organizers, this annual event brings the playful, cheeky world of Elfie and Elvie to life. Attendees will get a first look at our official Christmas product lineup, interactive props, and novelties designed to captivate high-street shoppers and online consumers alike during the holiday shopping rush. Exploring Novelty Innovations and Product Range During this full-day trade exhibition, visitors will explore an expansive gallery of new accessories, dress-up costumes, and novelty items added to the official Elves Behavin' Badly collection. Our product development team will host detailed walkthroughs showcasing new plush doll variations, prank kits, props, and holiday décor items. Retailers will learn how to leverage our high-margin, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) to maximize seasonal sales and build compelling impulse-purchase displays in high-footfall retail zones. Strategic Visual Merchandising and Retail POS Solutions Creating an engaging floor display is crucial for driving seasonal retail conversion. This event features interactive visual merchandising workshops where attendees can examine complete Point-of-Sale (POS) display units, branded floor spinners, and custom window display concept kits. Experienced retail strategists will demonstrate how to construct eye-catching, mischief-themed product zones that boost impulse buys and encourage cross-category purchases across apparel, stationery, and novelty accessories. Navigating Brand Licensing and Character Appearances Protecting brand integrity while expanding commercial reach is essential for sustainable retail growth. In dedicated licensing seminars, our brand management team will present guidelines on official trademark usage, anti-counterfeiting measures, and co-branding opportunities. Additionally, event managers will discover how to book official licensed Elfie and Elvie costume character appearances for shopping centre activations, festive parades, and promotional family events. Networking and Direct B2B Supply Chain Ordering The showcase provides a direct collaborative space for wholesale buyers to meet directly with our account managers, logistics partners, and inventory specialists. Participants will receive early-bird stock booking options, flexible delivery scheduling, and tailored volume pricing structures ahead of peak Christmas demand. Connect with fellow retail professionals, exchange seasonal consumer trends, and secure your holiday inventory straight from the source.

The Engineering Council Registration Pathway seminar, organized by The British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT), serves as an essential stepping stone for engineering professionals aiming to validate their expertise globally. Professional registration elevates an engineer's status, signaling peer recognition, commitment to ethical standards, and advanced competency. This upcoming session is meticulously designed to demystify the registration process, offering clear pathways for qualified individuals looking to formalize their standing within the broader engineering community. Navigating the Application Journey Understanding how to translate practical industry experience into formal competencies can often feel overwhelming. During this event, attendees will receive a comprehensive breakdown of what assessors look for in an application portfolio. The session covers essential documentation requirements, evidence compilation strategies, and ways to effectively map career milestones against the UK-SPEC (UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence) standards. Participants will leave with a clear roadmap, minimizing common pitfalls and accelerating their journey toward professional review. Expert Guidance and Insights Led by prominent industry expert Dr Michael Smith from BINDT, the seminar draws upon years of institutional experience in mentoring candidates. Attendees will gain first-hand knowledge regarding the subtle nuances of professional registration across different tiers, including Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Chartered Engineer (CEng) statuses. The speaker will share valuable tips on preparing for the professional review interview, ensuring that candidates can articulate their technical leadership, problem-solving capabilities, and dedication to safety and sustainability with confidence. Interactive Engagement and CPD Value Beyond theoretical presentations, the event emphasizes active engagement through a dedicated live Q&A segment. This open forum allows participants to pose individual questions regarding unique career trajectories, academic qualifications matrixes, or specific workplace evidence. Furthermore, attending this structured session contributes directly towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records, making it immensely valuable for current practitioners striving to maintain active certification, uphold industry standards, and secure long-term career advancement.

The Future of Social Housing Forum addresses one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges in the UK: the provision of safe, affordable, and high-quality homes. This Manchester-based forum gathers Housing Association CEOs, local council planners, and construction innovators to tackle the housing crisis head-on. With new safety regulations and decarbonization targets coming into force, the industry requires a unified approach to ensure that tenant welfare remains at the heart of development. The morning sessions will focus on "Safety and Standards," providing updates on the latest building safety legislation and the Decent Homes Standard. Experts will discuss the technical challenges of retrofitting older housing stock to meet energy efficiency requirements, sharing success stories of large-scale insulation and heat pump rollouts. This is a critical area for social landlords who must balance the cost of upgrades with the need to keep rents affordable for vulnerable populations. The afternoon transitions into "Community and Regeneration." This segment explores how social housing can be a catalyst for wider neighborhood improvement, integrating health services, green spaces, and digital connectivity into residential developments. A roundtable discussion will feature tenant advocates, ensuring that the voices of those living in social housing are central to the conversation about their future. By the end of the day, attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate the funding landscape and implement "Tenant-First" strategies in their organizations.

The Sustainable Education Summit is a two-day deep dive into the future of learning in a world defined by environmental and social change. Hosted at the prestigious University of Manchester, this event brings together vice-chancellors, headteachers, and educational researchers to discuss how the curriculum must evolve to prepare students for the "Green Economy." It moves beyond simple recycling programs to look at the "Circular Campus"—how institutions can achieve Net Zero while fostering a culture of sustainability. Day one focuses on "Curriculum Innovation," looking at how STEM and humanities subjects can integrate climate literacy. Speakers will present data on student expectations, highlighting that the next generation of learners prioritizes ethical institutional behavior as much as academic prestige. Workshops will help administrators develop "Sustainability Roadmaps" that encompass everything from procurement to energy-efficient building design. Day two shifts toward "Social Sustainability" and the wellbeing of both students and staff. In an era of increasing "eco-anxiety," the summit explores how schools and universities can provide robust mental health support while empowering students to take agency in their communities. The event also features a "Supplier Village," showcasing the latest in sustainable classroom technology, plastic-free catering solutions, and renewable energy providers. This is an essential gathering for any educational leader committed to future-proofing their institution.

The Digital Transformation in the Public Sector conference is the North’s premier gathering for technology leaders tasked with dragging legacy systems into the modern era. As citizens increasingly expect "digital-first" interactions with local and national government, the pressure on IT departments has never been higher. This conference addresses the dual challenge of rapid innovation and strict budgetary constraints, offering a roadmap for sustainable, scalable digital infrastructure. The 2026 program is centered around the theme of "Data for the Public Good." Discussions will revolve around how local authorities can utilize Big Data and predictive analytics to improve social care, waste management, and urban planning. Experts from the Government Digital Service (GDS) and local "Smart City" pioneers will share case studies on successful cloud migrations and the implementation of robust cybersecurity frameworks in the wake of increasing global threats. A highlight of the event is the "Automation and Ethics" track, which explores the role of robotic process automation (RPA) in streamlining bureaucratic tasks. While the efficiency gains are undeniable, the conference will facilitate tough conversations regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the digital divide. By ensuring that "no citizen is left behind," the event emphasizes inclusive design and accessibility as core components of any digital strategy. The afternoon concludes with a "Tech Pitch" session, where startups present sovereign-cloud solutions tailored for UK public sector requirements.

The Future of Mental Health Reform Conference arrives at a pivotal moment for the UK’s healthcare landscape. As the demand for mental health services continues to outpace available resources, this summit serves as a critical platform for policy influencers, clinical leads, and third-sector advocates to converge and redefine the standard of care. This year’s Manchester edition focuses specifically on the intersection of legislative reform and grassroots implementation, moving beyond theoretical policy to discuss practical, lived-experience-led solutions. Attendees will engage in deep-dive sessions regarding the modernization of the Mental Health Act, looking at how legal frameworks can better protect patient autonomy while ensuring safety. A significant portion of the day is dedicated to the "Crisis to Community" initiative, which explores how localized support hubs can alleviate the pressure on Accident and Emergency departments. By bringing together diverse voices—from Chief Nursing Officers to digital health innovators—the conference aims to dismantle the silos that currently hinder holistic recovery. The agenda features keynote addresses from leading psychiatrists and government advisors who will dissect the latest funding allocations and workforce retention strategies. With the rise of digital therapy and AI-driven diagnostics, a dedicated "Innovation Stream" will showcase how technology can bridge the gap in rural and underserved urban areas. This is not just a series of lectures; it is a collaborative workspace designed to produce a white paper of recommendations for the Department of Health and Social Care.

The planning system in England is currently undergoing its most significant transformation in a generation. Following the implementation of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, the rules governing housing growth, green belt protection, and local plan development have been radically redefined. MBL Seminars Limited invites you to Manchester for an essential "Hot Topics" update that untangles the web of new regulations and national policy changes. This seminar is vital for anyone involved in the development process, from local authority officers to private sector developers. This year’s programme focuses heavily on the return of strategic regional planning and the enhanced powers given to Mayors and combined authorities. We will analyze the newest National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) updates, specifically focusing on the mandatory housing targets and the new "Grey Belt" designation intended to unlock sustainable development sites. Our expert speakers will also provide a practical guide to the latest environmental requirements, including Environmental Delivery Plans and the role of the Nature Restoration Fund in the planning application process. Furthermore, the seminar will examine recent landmark decisions from the Planning Inspectorate and the courts that are shaping the interpretation of "sustainable development" and "beauty" in design. We will discuss the practicalities of navigating Section 106 agreements and the Infrastructure Levy in the current economic climate. Whether you are dealing with large-scale renewable energy projects or small-scale residential developments, this event provides the clarity needed to avoid delays and maximize the chances of successful planning outcomes. Secure your place to stay ahead in the competitive Manchester property and development market.

Taxation for partnerships and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) has become a focal point for HMRC compliance activities in 2026. This MBL Seminars event in Manchester is designed to equip tax advisors and partners with a deep understanding of the current fiscal environment. As the lines between corporate and partnership tax continue to blur, understanding the nuances of profit allocation, mixed-member partnership rules, and the "salaried member" legislation is vital for avoiding costly penalties and optimizing tax efficiency. The seminar will begin with an analysis of the Spring 2026 Budget implications for unincorporated businesses. Our speakers will explore the intricacies of capital accounts, the taxation of partnership disposals, and the impact of the latest anti-avoidance measures. A major highlight will be the session on international aspects of partnership tax, focusing on how UK-based partnerships with overseas interests must navigate the evolving global minimum tax standards. We will also cover the "Making Tax Digital" (MTD) requirements for partnerships, which are entering a critical phase of implementation in mid-2026. In addition to technical tax updates, the course will address the practicalities of partnership restructuring. Whether your clients are considering a move to a corporate structure or admitting new members, you will gain insights into the tax consequences of these transitions. The day concludes with a practical workshop on managing HMRC inquiries and the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in tax disputes. By attending this seminar, you will not only stay compliant but also identify proactive tax planning opportunities that can provide significant value to your firm or your clients' businesses.

The agricultural landscape in the UK is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by post-Brexit policy changes, environmental mandates, and evolving tax structures. This comprehensive seminar, hosted by MBL Seminars Limited, is meticulously designed to provide legal practitioners, land agents, and rural advisors with the critical updates necessary to navigate these complexities. As the government continues to transition from the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) to the Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes, the legal frameworks governing land use, tenancy, and diversification are becoming increasingly intricate. Throughout this intensive session, attendees will explore the latest developments in Agricultural Holdings Act (AHA) tenancies and Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs), specifically focusing on succession rights and dispute resolution. With the 2026 deadline for various environmental compliance measures approaching, the seminar will also delve into the legalities of carbon credits, biodiversity net gain (BNG), and how these emerging markets impact traditional land valuation and lease agreements. Our expert speakers will provide a deep dive into the recent changes in inheritance tax and capital gains tax that specifically affect farm owners and family businesses, offering practical strategies for effective succession planning. Beyond the black-letter law, this event serves as a vital networking hub. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in peer-to-peer discussions regarding the practicalities of advising clients who are looking to diversify into renewable energy or holiday let ventures. We will examine recent case law regarding proprietary estoppel and boundary disputes, which remain high-risk areas in rural law. By attending, you will ensure your practice remains at the forefront of the agricultural sector, equipped with the knowledge to safeguard your clients' interests in a rapidly changing economic environment.

In an era defined by flexible working arrangements, the rise of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and significant legislative overhauls, staying compliant with employment law has never been more challenging. MBL Seminars Limited is proud to present "Employment Law 2026," a definitive seminar tailored for HR professionals and legal practitioners in the North West. This event focuses on the practical application of recent statutes and the evolving case law that governs the employer-employee relationship in a post-digital age. The seminar will cover the most pressing issues of the year, including the latest developments in "day one" rights for employees and the heightened requirements for redundancy consultation processes. As the UK government continues to refine the boundaries of worker status in the gig economy, our expert panel will provide clarity on the legal tests for employment status and the implications for payroll and benefits. We will also address the critical area of workplace equality and diversity, specifically looking at the new mandatory duties for employers to prevent sexual harassment and how to implement robust internal policies that withstand legal scrutiny. A significant portion of the afternoon will be dedicated to the "Right to Disconnect" and the management of mental health and wellbeing under health and safety legislation. Attendees will learn how to handle complex "SOSR" (Some Other Substantial Reason) dismissals and the pitfalls of performance management in a remote environment. With hands-on case studies and interactive Q&A sessions, this seminar goes beyond theory, providing you with a toolkit of templates and checklists to bring back to your organization. This is an essential update for anyone responsible for protecting an organization from the rising costs of employment tribunals.

Manchester, once known as "Cottonopolis," is the ideal location for the British Council’s Creative Futures: Sustainable Fashion Symposium. This two-day event explores how the UK’s textile heritage can be reimagined through the lens of the circular economy and cutting-edge technology. Bringing together designers, environmental scientists, and tech innovators, the symposium seeks to bridge the gap between creative vision and industrial sustainability. The event will feature a series of high-impact workshops focusing on sustainable dyeing processes, zero-waste pattern cutting, and the use of blockchain for supply chain transparency. A highlight of the symposium is the "International Collaboration Showcase," which features successful partnerships between UK designers and global artisans supported by British Council grants. Participants will explore how traditional craftsmanship can be preserved while adopting modern ecological standards. The second day transitions into a "Tech-Fashion Lab," where attendees can experiment with 3D garment rendering and bio-synthetic materials. By fostering a dialogue between Manchester’s local fashion industry and international experts, the symposium aims to create a roadmap for a more ethical and sustainable global fashion ecosystem. This event is not just a discussion but a practical call to action for the next generation of creative leaders.

The Digital Innovation in Arts & Research Forum is a flagship event designed to explore the profound impact of emerging technologies on cultural expression and academic inquiry. Set in the vibrant HOME Manchester arts center, the forum brings together researchers, digital artists, and technologists to discuss how tools like Generative AI, Extended Reality (XR), and Big Data are reshaping our understanding of culture. The British Council has long championed the intersection of technology and the arts, and this forum serves as a critical checkpoint for the "Arts and Technologies" roadmap toward 2030. Day one focuses on "Immersive Storytelling," with presentations on how museums and galleries are using XR to create decolonized narratives and more inclusive visitor experiences. Day two shifts toward "Data-Driven Research," examining how digital archives are being used to track cultural trends and measure the social impact of arts programs. A special session will be dedicated to the "Ethics of AI in Creativity," tackling issues of copyright, authenticity, and the digital divide. The forum includes a "Research Poster Gallery" where PhD students and early-career researchers from across the UK can present their work to an audience of industry professionals. With Manchester being a designated UNESCO City of Literature and a burgeoning tech hub, the forum provides an unparalleled opportunity to forge cross-disciplinary partnerships that will define the creative economy for years to come.