iGB Affiliate Awards 2026 to be held at London’s The Shard

The iGB Affiliate Awards will be held at The Shard in London on 2 July, organisers have confirmed.

The awards ceremony, which recognises winners across 22 categories, will take place at the Aqua Shard Restaurant on the building’s 31st floor.

Designed as a “Vertical City” rising from the River Thames, The Shard stands just under 310 metres (1,016 feet) high and has become one of London’s most recognisable architectural attractions.

"Every live event has to evolve in parallel with the changing tastes and needs of its community of stakeholders,” said World Gaming Group Managing Director Alex Pratt. "The Shard is one of London's smartest, contemporary venues and one that chimes with the energy and personality of a dynamic sector that's underpinned by a progressive 'can-do' outlook."

Pratt also confirmed that the traditional seated arrangement will be replaced with a standing format to encourage networking and create a more integrated awards experience.

“Our aim is to reintegrate the ceremony into the flow of the evening and back into the heart of the awards experience,” he explained. "Over a million people visited the Shard in its first year, with the structure beating 300 skyscrapers to win the international Emporis Skyscraper Award. The Shard is an unforgettable venue, and I'm sure that the industry will embrace its outstanding architecture and ambience."

The event will begin at 8 p.m., with guests served a selection of bowls, bites and canapés curated by Aqua Shard Executive Chef Mark Abbot.

Industry members interested in attending the iGB Affiliate Awards can secure their place by contacting [email protected].