New for 2026, the awards comprise three categories designed to highlight operators turning environmental ambition into operational and commercial advantage. The shortlist was developed in collaboration with Zero Carbon Forum.

Winners will be announced on 4 March at Planet Peach: The Sustainability Summit.
 

Carbon and Cost Efficiency Award

This category recognises operators that have reduced both emissions and operating costs through practical, scalable innovation - including energy efficiency programmes, behavioural change campaigns, food waste reduction and low-carbon menu development.

Shortlisted:

• Azzurri
• Fuller, Smith & Turner 
• Mitchells & Butlers 
• Nando’s 
• Robinson’s
• Wasabi

The category reflects growing recognition that carbon reduction and margin improvement are increasingly aligned.
 

Climate Resilient Operator Award

With extreme weather, supply volatility and energy risk climbing the board agenda, this award recognises operators strengthening resilience while accelerating decarbonisation.

Examples include onsite renewable generation, converting waste into energy, integrating vertical farming into supply chains, regenerative sourcing practices and planning for flood or heat risk.

Shortlisted:

• Faber
• Mitchells & Butlers
• Nando’s 
• St Austell
• The Restaurant Group
• WSH
   

Brand Communication Award

This category recognises operators that have most effectively embedded sustainability within brand positioning and culture — and communicated climate action clearly to customers, investors and employees.

Shortlisted:

• Flight Club
• Fuller, Smith & Turner
• McDonalds
• Mitchells & Butlers
• Pizza Pilgrims 
• WSH 

“Sustainability is now a competitive advantage” Peter Martin, founder of Planet Peach, said: “The most progressive hospitality businesses now see sustainability as a core driver of performance, not a peripheral initiative. What stands out about this year’s shortlist is the level of operational depth - these are businesses reducing energy use, strengthening supply chains and engaging teams at scale. In today’s trading environment, operators that cut carbon, build resilience and communicate clearly will be better positioned for long-term success. Sustainability is increasingly a competitive advantage.”

The awards launch comes amid mounting regulatory pressure, rising energy costs and increased investor scrutiny across the sector.

The winners will be revealed on 4 March at Planet Peach: The Sustainability Summit.

Planet Peach thanks its partners: Headline partner: Nutritics. Founding Partners: Zero Carbon Forum & Fleet Street. Event partners: Brakes, CEDA, Kitch, NIQ, Prestige Purchasing, Sustainable Restaurant Association and United.