Esomar names finalists for 2026 awards

Esomar has announced the finalists for its 2026 awards, highlighting work in AI-assisted research, consumer insights, public policy and social impact. Winners will be revealed at Esomar Congress 2026 in Valencia, Spain, on Sept. 1-4.

Why it matters: - The shortlist spotlights research and insights work that can shape business decisions, public policy and industry practice. - The finalists span global brands, agencies, technology companies, consultancies and independent researchers, showing where innovation is coming from across the field. - The awards also signal which methods and topics are gaining traction, including AI-assisted research, qualitative work and social impact studies.

What happened: - Esomar announced the finalists for the 2026 Esomar Awards on July 20, 2026. - The awards recognize outstanding work in market research, analytics and consumer insights. - Shortlisted entries cover healthcare, consumer behavior, mobility, public policy and social impact, along with new approaches to AI-assisted research and qualitative methods. - Entries came from global brands, research agencies, technology companies, consultancies and independent researchers.

The details: - Finalists include collaborations involving Microsoft, Google, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Nike, Kraft Heinz, Henkel, Unilever, eBay, BBC, Time Out, PepsiCo, Playtech and AXA. - The shortlist also includes work from Human8, Verve, Toluna, Ipsos, Kantar, MMR Research, Rival Technologies, Alter Agents and Quantum Consumer Solutions. - An independent panel of judges selected finalists across global categories. - Global categories cover excellence in AI and automation, research methodology, qualitative research, consumer insights, research impact, social impact and innovation. - Regional awards will recognize finalists from Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, and North America. - The Young Esomar Society Award will highlight emerging talent across the profession. - The full list of finalists is available here.

Between the lines: - The mix of finalists suggests the industry is rewarding both technical innovation and practical impact. - AI remains a major theme, but the shortlist also shows continued demand for rigorous methodology and applied research. - Esomar is using the awards to reinforce standards for ethical, effective and business-relevant research.

What's next: - Winners will be announced at the Esomar Awards Ceremony during Esomar Congress 2026. - The congress runs Sept. 1-4, 2026, in Valencia, Spain. - Regional and youth awards will be part of the broader recognition program.

The bottom line: - Esomar's 2026 finalists reflect a profession balancing AI-driven innovation with research that aims to influence decisions in business, policy and society.