Putting on the Ritz: Manchester Hoteliers Association celebrates 21st Anniversary with ‘Roaring 20s’ Ball
Membership organisation comprising more than 75 of Greater Manchester’s key hotels, the MHA, has announced plans for its 21st annual ball. The popular event is hosted every year to raise money for local charities and celebrate the hospitality industry.
Taking place on Thursday 29th October, the ball will return to Emirates Old Trafford for the second year running.
Since the organisation’s inception, one of its key pillars has been charitable donations, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds from the annual celebration over two decades. This year’s chosen charities are Barnabus, Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, Wood Street Mission and national charity, Hospitality Action. MHA chair, Matt Townley, has set lofty aims to beat last year’s £45,000 raised.
The event, which will take a ‘Roaring 20s’ theme, will also play host to the MHA’s annual awards, voted for by a panel of business and industry experts. Following usual proceedings, there will be a total of nine trophies presented on the night, including Unsung Hero, Rising Star, and Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality.
Matt, who is also Group Operations Director at Dakota Hotels, said: “Now in its 21st year, the MHA ball has become a cherished tradition within our industry, providing an opportunity to recognise achievements and support important charitable causes.
“Manchester’s hotel and hospitality community continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and collaboration, and this year’s event will be a fitting celebration of those qualities. We look forward to welcoming colleagues, partners, and friends from across the sector for what promises to be a memorable evening as always.”
The event has also amassed support from key local and national sponsors such as, WGC, Expedia, MMU, Stephenson’s, Elix Air, and Percipient.
MHA’s five key industry partners; Nespresso, Silentnight, Howden, Mint People, and Purple Story will also continue supporting the organisation for a second year running.
Pamela Reckert at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “Manchester Metropolitan University is proud to sponsor the 21st Manchester Hoteliers Association Ball and support an event that celebrates the people and achievements that make Greater Manchester’s hospitality industry so exceptional.
“As a university with strong links to the region’s hospitality sector, we’re committed to helping develop the next generation of talent while working closely with businesses to address the industry’s evolving needs. The MHA Ball is a fantastic opportunity to recognise excellence, strengthen collaboration across the sector, and raise vital funds for charities making a real difference in our communities. We look forward to celebrating alongside colleagues and partners from across Greater Manchester.”
The ball will be taking place on Thursday 29th October at Emirates Old Trafford, with more than 800 people expected to turn out. Tickets are available and can be purchased here. Entries are now open for the MHA awards and can be submitted here.
