The Giftware Association has unveiled the finalists for the Gift of the Year 2026 awards! After months of anticipation, hundreds of exceptional entries, and two rigorous rounds of judging by an esteemed panel of more than 120 industry experts, the very best products from across the home and gift world have been selected to move forward in the competition.
The Gift of the Year awards celebrate the most exciting and innovative products across 20 diverse categories, spanning Home Fragrance, Home & Kitchen, Games & Puzzles, and many more. The 2026 competition has continued to evolve, attracting new brands and exciting products and ranges, cementing its reputation as one of the most influential awards programmes in the industry.
This year has been one of the most competitive to date, with judges from leading retailers, trade publications, and industry bodies challenged to select their top contenders from 700-plus entries.
“Every year, we’re blown away by the creativity and hard work shown by the home and gift industry, and 2026 has raised the bar even higher”
The second round of judging took place at Spring Fair 2026, which once again welcomed thousands of visitors eager to explore the shortlisted products, collect the official shortlist brochure, and discover the most exciting new launches entering the market in 2026.
Chris Workman, head of operations at The Giftware Association, said: “Every year, we’re blown away by the creativity and hard work shown by the home and gift industry, and 2026 has raised the bar even higher. Seeing the products finally displayed in real life after months of planning is always a highlight for me.
“Each category has grown again, with new products and new ideas that have wowed the team and the judges. The judging panel had an incredibly tough task choosing their favourites from such an outstanding selection. Congratulations to all of our finalists. It’s a huge achievement, and we can’t wait to reveal the winners at The Gift Awards in May.”
The final round of judging will take place over the coming weeks to determine the coveted Judges’ Choice – Gift of the Year. The ultimate winners will be announced at the Gift Awards, held at the Royal Lancaster London in partnership with The Greats Gift Retailer Awards.
The full list of Gift of the Year 2026 finalists is now live at www.giftoftheyear.co.uk (see the ‘Finalists’ tab).
But it’s not over yet for shortlisted brands, as the public can vote for the People’s Choice Award, which is now open. Anyone can vote: customers, followers, communities, and supporters across the industry. To vote, visit the website, find your favourite product in your favourite category, and click “Cast My Vote”. Votes for the People’s Choice Award close on May 16.
