BPIA Concept and Innovation Award 2026: Hegen wins at Harrogate
Last week I told you Harrogate International Nursery Fair was where UK buyers decide what lands on shelves next year, and the three finalists for the BPIA Concept and Innovation Award were the stand to visit (you can read my preview here). On Sunday 18th October the winner was announced: Hegen, for its multifunctional feeding and drinkware system. The award was presented by Sara Ludlam of Brabners, the specialist law firm that sponsors it. Hegen's system is made from PPSU (polyphenylsulfone), a durable, high-performance material. The judges liked the square bottles that stack neatly for storage, and a lid that secures without screwing. But what really set it apart was versatility: interchangeable lids let the same product move from a baby feeding bottle to a sippy cup, a beaker and eventually a drinks bottle for older children. As Sara Ludlam put it, Hegen shows how "thoughtful product development can create something distinctive, versatile and commercially exciting". Congratulations as well to the other two finalists, Eimear Campbell's Swishroll, a clever aid for cleaning stroller wheels, and Natasha Artwell's Little Pair, a new take on portable support for twins. Getting to the final is an achievement in itself.
The Hegen team receive the BPIA Concept & Innovation Award 2026. IMAGES: BPIA
I was at the fair, and I went to congratulate the Hegen team in person. They were, understandably, delighted. What I loved hearing is that although Hegen has a much wider range, they're launching in the UK with their founding products, their absolute bestsellers: the feeding system that won. That's a lesson in itself. Lead with what you're known for. And here's what makes this win special: the final round was voted on by businesses from across the industry, including brands that make feeding products themselves. When your peers, and your competitors, vote for you, that's real recognition.
What I love about this result is what it rewards. In a market full of products that are outgrown in months, the winning concept was one designed to last and to grow with the child. That's good for parents' budgets and good for the planet, and it's what buyers are looking for too. The prize is practical: £1,000 of legal advice from Brabners, a product development session with Plan A Product Development, and mentoring with BPIA Chair Marc Hardenberg. That's exactly the support that helps turn a clever idea into a commercial success. Harrogate International Nursery Fair returns from Sunday 17th to Tuesday 19th October 2027.
What this means for you: if you're developing a product, design for longevity and say so. Judges notice it, buyers notice it and parents pay for it. And if you have a concept you believe in, enter next year's BPIA Concept and Innovation Award. The expert feedback alone is worth it, and the shortlist puts you in front of the whole UK nursery trade.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who won the BPIA Concept and Innovation Award 2026?
Hegen, for its multifunctional feeding and drinkware system, announced at Harrogate International Nursery Fair on Sunday 18th October 2026.
Who were the other finalists?
Eimear Campbell with Swishroll, an aid for cleaning stroller wheels, and Natasha Artwell with Little Pair, a portable support concept for twins.
What does the winner receive?
£1,000 of legal advice from sponsor Brabners, a product development session with Plan A Product Development, and a mentoring session with BPIA Chair Marc Hardenberg.
If you're thinking about entering an award or developing a product built to last, get in touch with The Nest. I'd love to help you get it ready.
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