With entries now open for the Trades Awards 2026, it’s time to take a closer look at this year’s categories and where your business, project, or team could fit. One of the things that makes the Trades Awards so special is its inclusive approach. Whether you’re a sole trader, SME or large organisation, there is a category designed to recognise your work and achievements. Each year, we review and evolve the categories to ensure they reflect the real work happening across the industry, and 2026 is no different.d

What’s New for 2026

As the construction industry continues to grow and evolve, so too do the Trades Awards. For 2026, we’ve introduced and refined a number of categories to better represent the breadth of the sector:

Construction Supplier of the Year

Recognising the vital role suppliers, merchants and service providers play in keeping projects moving and supporting the wider industry.

Inspiring Women in Construction

Celebrating the achievements of women across all areas of construction, from site-based roles to leadership and technical positions.

Outstanding Construction Business

A refreshed category that brings together businesses of all sizes, recognising overall excellence in performance, quality, and growth.

These additions ensure we continue to shine a light on the people and businesses shaping the future of construction.

A Reminder of What’s New in Recent Years

The Trades Awards have continued to expand in recent years to reflect the changing priorities of the industry.

In 2025, we introduced these new categories:

• Community Engagement
• Construction Consultancy of the Year
• Health, Safety & Wellbeing

These categories were created to recognise not just the work being delivered, but how it is delivered, with a focus on people, communities, and long-term impact.

Trades Awards 2026 Categories in full

This year’s awards cover the full spectrum of the construction industry:

Health, Safety & Wellbeing

Recognising individuals or teams who create safe, supportive working environments and demonstrate a proactive approach to health and safety.

Community Engagement

Celebrating projects that make a meaningful difference to local communities through engagement, consultation and social value.

Home or Building Improvement

Highlighting exceptional renovation or improvement projects that combine craftsmanship, innovation and customer satisfaction.

Construction Supplier of the Year (New)

Recognising suppliers, merchants and service providers who play a crucial role in supporting construction projects and partnerships.

Outstanding Customer Service

Awarding businesses that consistently go above and beyond to deliver excellent service and build lasting client relationships.

Construction Consultancy of the Year

Celebrating consultancies that provide expert guidance, innovative solutions and support successful project delivery.

Apprentice of the Year

Recognising apprentices who have shown outstanding growth, commitment and contribution to their organisation.

Rising Star

Highlighting emerging talent making a real impact early in their career and showing strong future potential.

Site Manager of the Year

Recognising exceptional leadership, organisation and problem-solving in managing construction projects.

Tradesperson of the Year

Honouring individuals who demonstrate outstanding skill, professionalism and pride in their work.

Inspiring Women in Construction (New)

Celebrating women making a significant impact across the construction industry and inspiring the next generation.

Outstanding Construction Business

Recognising a business that demonstrates excellence across projects, people, culture and growth.

Construction Project of the Year

Celebrating projects that stand out for their design, delivery, innovation and impact on the community or industry.

Outstanding Contribution Award

Honouring an individual who has made a lasting and meaningful impact on the construction industry over their career.

Why Enter?

Entering the Trades Awards is about more than just winning. It’s an opportunity to:

• Showcase your work
• Recognise your team
• Build credibility within the industry
• Reflect on your achievements

And most importantly, it’s a chance to be part of an event that celebrates the people behind the industry.

Ready to Enter?

Register today or contact us on isla.stewart@mearns-gill.com for a quick chat.