If you caught the booming voice of Rugeley town crier Adrian Basford echoing across Staffordshire, you’ll have heard the official launch of HEXFEST: back bigger and better for June 2026.

Hot on the heels of being crowned Employer of the Year at the coveted Staffordshire Business Awards, The HEX Group is celebrating its latest accolade by announcing the return of its signature family festival—and Adrian was only too happy to help break the exciting news to 500 colleagues across the company’s multiple sites.

As a leading Staffordshire-based engineering and manufacturing business—comprising multiple award-winning divisions including Bri-Stor Systems, Alpha Manufacturing, Atlas Coating, HEX Graphics, and HEX Living—The HEX Group continues to grow its reputation as a stand-out employer, praised for its strong culture and people-first approach.

Riding the high of the recent award win, Karen Barnacle, Group People & Culture Director at The HEX Group, says now is the perfect time to announce HEXFEST:

“Though the group has over 40 years of history, the Employer of the Year award is the first to recognise the collective group, marking a major milestone in our journey. Each and every one of our colleagues has contributed to our success and helped us bring the award home, so HEXFEST is our way of saying thank you and celebrating the amazing culture we’ve all built together—and perhaps most importantly, having fun!”

Originally launched in 2024 to celebrate the company’s 40^th anniversary, HEXFEST has quickly become a standout event in The HEX Group’s calendar. Last year, more than 3,000 attended the free event, made up of colleagues and their friends and family.  The event was designed to mirror some of the UK’s standout festivals, including a packed programme of entertainment, live music performances, and family-friendly activities.

The 2026 edition of HEXFEST promises to build on last year’s success, featuring:

• Live music and DJ sets
• A funfair
• ‘It’s a Knockout’-style team challenges
• Street food markets and a wide selection of drinks
• Family-friendly fun including lawn games and creative zones
• HEX Living Pavillion

Uttoxeter Racecourse, which hosted the original event, is gearing up to welcome The HEX Group again next summer.  Chloe Whiston, Business Coordinator at Uttoxeter Racecourse said: “Last year’s event was an incredible celebration of community, and we look forward to hosting another unforgettable day. It’s rare to see a company show so much appreciation for its team, and we’re proud to be part of that.”

Reflecting on last year’s event, The HEX Group colleague and attendee, Nick Moss, said: “My family and I couldn’t be more excited for HEXFEST 2026; it’s already circled on the calendar! If it’s anything like last time, we’re in for a fantastic day. The atmosphere was electric, and it was great to share it with colleagues and their families. It’s great to be part of a company that shows its gratitude in such a meaningful way.”