The winners of the 2026 Pump Industry Awards were revealed at a glittering Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony held on the evening of 19th March at The Hilton Hotel, St George’s Park, Burton upon Trent. Now in its 26th year, the event once again brought together leading figures from across the pump sector to celebrate excellence, innovation, and achievement.
This year’s awards saw a record number of entries, underlining the continued strength, diversity, and forward-thinking nature of the industry. From cutting-edge product development to sustainability initiatives and skills advancement, the breadth and quality of submissions demonstrated a sector firmly focused on meeting the challenges of the future.
Opening the evening, the BPMA President, Lee Tebbatt praised the calibre of entries and the collaborative spirit of the industry: “The Pump Industry Awards continue to showcase the very best our sector has to offer. This year’s record-breaking participation is testament to the innovation, resilience, and talent that defines our industry. Every finalist and winner should be immensely proud of their achievements.”
Among the evening’s standout honours, Product of the Year, sponsored by DFA Media Group, was awarded to Selwood for its SelTank, recognised for its innovation and practical impact. Simon Finlay, Solutions and Electrical Development Director at Selwood commented: “Winning the Product of the Year Award is a tremendous milestone for the SelTank project and its journey so far. It’s a well-deserved recognition for everyone at Selwood and across the Workdry Group who helped transform a simple sketch of an idea into an award-winning innovation.
In the Environmental Contribution of the Year category, sponsored by SPP Pumps, ABB took top honours for its IE5 Synchronous Reluctance (SynRM) Motor Range, highlighting the growing importance of energy efficiency and sustainability. Richard Gee, UK Sales Manager, IEC low voltage motors at ABB said: “To be recognised specifically for our environmental contribution means a great deal. Sustainability sits at the heart of everything we do, and to have that work acknowledged by our peers in the pump industry makes it all the more special.”
Metcor Pumps was named Distributor of the Year, jointly sponsored by Calpeda and Caprari, while John Crane received the ABB sponsored Contribution to Skills & Training Award for its partnership with The University of Sheffield, underlining the sector’s investment in future talent.
The Project of the Year award, sponsored by World Pumps, went to Baker Hughes for its Reliable Pumping Solution for Combined Cycle Plants, a project demonstrating engineering excellence from design through to operation. Commenting on the achievement, Roberto Pirro, Pump Water Solutions Director at Baker Hughes said: “We are extremely proud to receive this international recognition, which marks a major milestone for our Team and our commitment to innovation.”
One of the most prestigious accolades of the evening, Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by WEG UK, was awarded to SPP Pumps, recognising its outstanding performance and industry leadership. Meanwhile, WEG UK was also celebrated as the winner of Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Wilo.
The next generation of talent was recognised in the Rising Star Award, sponsored by Innomotics, with Luke Norris of John Crane UK taking the title. Reflecting on his achievement, Norris said: “It’s a huge honour to be recognised among such talented peers. This industry offers incredible opportunities, and I’m excited to be part of its future.”
The Sustainable Contribution for a Better World Award, sponsored by AESSEAL, was presented to Apex Pumps, acknowledging its commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. Liam Peacock, OEM Sales Manager at AESSEAL, who handed over the trophy said: Sponsoring this important award reflects AESSEAL’s long term commitment to practical environmental action. This year’s finalists demonstrate how our sector can accelerate emissions avoidance at scale, and it is great to once again celebrate with so many innovative businesses.”
Another sponsor, Patrick Tantum, Group Director, UK & Ireland at Calpeda and Caprari, summed up the evening’s significance: “We are honoured to support the BPMA’s Pump Industry Awards programme, which continues to showcase the very best of innovation, engineering excellence, and collaboration across our sector. It was a pleasure to be part of the evening once again, bringing the industry together to recognise success, reconnect with peers, and highlight the strength of the community behind it. Not only does it celebrate achievement, but also sets the benchmark for standards, drive progress, and inspire the next phase of growth within our industry. We are proud to play our part in supporting that journey.”
The Gala Dinner provided a vibrant backdrop to the awards, offering attendees the opportunity to network, reconnect, and celebrate shared successes in a relaxed and convivial setting.
As the evening concluded, attention turned to the future. With innovation accelerating and sustainability at the forefront, the Pump Industry Awards continue to play a vital role in highlighting the achievements shaping the sector.
The organisers now look ahead to the 2027 event, confident that the industry will continue to build on this year’s exceptional standard.
