Growing UKREiiF to move from Leeds to Liverpool in 2028

UKREiiF, the UK’s largest real estate and infrastructure forum, has confirmed that its sixth and final event in Leeds will take place at the Royal Armouries from 18 to 20 May 2027. From 2028 onwards, the event will relocate to Liverpool, marking a new phase in its development.

Since its inception in 2022, UKREiiF has been based in Leeds, growing into a significant platform that attracts over 17,000 delegates annually. These attendees represent government bodies, investors, developers, local authorities, and the broader built environment sector, all collaborating to stimulate investment, regeneration, and economic growth.

The forum has played a pivotal role in facilitating major investments, with estimates indicating that more than £4 billion worth of projects are either underway or planned as a direct outcome of UKREiiF.

Nathan Spencer, Co-Founding Director and Managing Director of UKREiiF, emphasised the importance of Leeds in the event’s success: “This isn’t a story about leaving Leeds; it’s a story about celebrating everything that Leeds and West Yorkshire has helped UKREiiF become – without the region and the people within it the event wouldn’t have been as successful.” He added, “Leeds gave us the platform, the confidence and the partnership to do exactly that. That legacy will always belong to Leeds and West Yorkshire, and we’ll continue to be based here with the region holding such a brilliant talent pool that will help us continue our growth – both within the UK and overseas, which starts with our first event in Australia in 2027.”

Leeds City Council Leader, Councillor James Lewis, highlighted the economic impact of UKREiiF on the city: “UKREiiF’s presence in our city has been a resounding success story, delivering significant economic benefits of around £75 million for the economy and raising our profile on a national and international stage.” He praised the partnership with UKREiiF and expressed optimism about the event remaining in the North, stating, “We look forward to working with other cities to continue to press the case for investment and growth across our regions.”

Lewis also noted the boost UKREiiF has given to Leeds as a conference destination, saying, “UKREiiF has helped to prove the unique ability of conferencing here in Leeds, with many more larger scale conferences committing to Leeds as a result.” He pointed to plans for the Royal Armouries to undergo significant upgrades to enhance capacity and visitor experience in the coming years.

Nat Edwards, Director General and Master of the Armouries, reflected on hosting the event since 2022: “It has been a privilege to host UKREiiF here at the Royal Armouries for six remarkable years. What began as a bold new addition to the UK’s events calendar has grown into one of the most influential forums in the country.” He acknowledged the economic benefits for Leeds and the region and expressed excitement about the Royal Armouries Waterfront project, which aims to create a world-class venue attracting major events for decades.

Matt Christie, Co-Founding Director and Director of External Affairs at UKREiiF, expressed gratitude to the West Yorkshire community and introduced Liverpool as the next host city: “We’re enormously grateful to the whole West Yorkshire community and would like to thank them for their support in making UKREiiF into what it has become. I’d also like to look forward and mention our next host destination – Liverpool – which will take the reins from 2028.” He added, “The proposition we’ve created alongside them is excellent and will keep the Festivalisation and vibe which makes UKREiiF what it is.”

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin reflected on the event’s origins and impact: “We have loved having UKREiiF in Leeds, it was born here, and I hope it comes back home soon.” She praised the region as “the best place in the UK to start and grow a business” and expressed pride in nurturing an internationally significant event.

Ben Campbell, Venue Director at the Royal Armouries, thanked all partners involved in UKREiiF’s success in Leeds: “We greatly enjoyed working with the team and hosting all the UKREiiF delegates at the Royal Armouries and are incredibly proud of its legacy in Leeds.” He looked forward to the 2027 event and wished UKREiiF success in its future endeavours.

The move to Liverpool’s Experience Campus (LEX) from 2028 aligns with UKREiiF’s strategic growth plans. The new venue offers expanded capacity and a broad range of accommodation options, supporting the event’s continued expansion and evolution.