16–20 November 2026
Five days of ideas, learning and conversations about the future of insights and research
The Festival of NewMR returns in November 2026, bringing together researchers, insight professionals, clients, innovators and future-focused thinkers from around the world.
Across five days, we will explore the skills, technologies, ideas and challenges shaping our profession—combining practical learning with fresh perspectives and conversations about what comes next.
The Festival will include online sessions designed for our global community. Join us for one event, follow a particular theme or take part throughout the week.
Festival programme
Monday 16 November
Programme to be announced
We will begin the Festival week with a special programme of speakers and conversations. More details will be announced soon.
Tuesday 17 November
Training Day
A day dedicated to building the skills researchers and insight professionals need now and for the future.
Training Day will feature practical learning sessions designed to help participants strengthen their capabilities, explore new approaches and apply what they learn in their own work.
Full course details, presenters, timings and registration information will be available soon.
Wednesday 18 November
Innovation Day
What is changing in research and insights—and which new ideas genuinely matter?
Innovation Day will showcase emerging approaches, technologies and ways of working. Speakers will share examples, experiences and lessons from the frontiers of research, helping us distinguish meaningful innovation from short-lived hype.
Expect practical applications, fresh thinking and honest conversations about both the opportunities and the challenges associated with change.
Thursday 19 November
Client Day
Client Day will put the perspectives and priorities of client-side insight professionals at the centre of the conversation.
Speakers will explore the challenges facing insight teams, how the role of insights is evolving and what organisations need from research partners. The programme will focus on real experiences, practical lessons and the opportunities for insights to create greater influence and impact.
Friday 20 November
Futuring Friday
We will close the Festival by looking ahead.
Futuring Friday will bring together leading thinkers from across the global research and insights community to discuss the trends, developments and possibilities likely to shape the years ahead.
The emphasis will not simply be on predicting the future, but on understanding the changes already underway—and considering how researchers, insight professionals and organisations can prepare, adapt and help create what comes next.
Futuring Friday will include sessions timed for different parts of the world, enabling our international community to join the conversation.
Who should attend?
The Festival of NewMR is for everyone interested in the present and future of research and insights, including:
- Client-side insight professionals
- Market and social researchers
- Data, analytics and behavioural science professionals
- Research suppliers and consultants
- Technology and innovation specialists
- Students and people beginning their insights careers
Whether you want to develop practical skills, discover new approaches, hear from insight leaders or think more deeply about the future of the profession, you will find something for you during Festival week.
Speakers and registration
Speakers, session times and registration links will be added as the programme develops.
Join the NewMR mailing list to receive Festival announcements and be among the first to hear when registration opens.
Interested in taking part?
If you are interested in speaking, contributing to the programme or supporting the Festival of NewMR 2026 as a sponsor, please contact us at sue@new-mr.com.
