CO-OP LIVE: MANCHESTER’S NEW MUSIC POWERHOUSE
Story by Arden Vale
30 Sep 2025
Opened in 2024, Co-op Live has quickly become one of the UK’s biggest and most talked about indoor arena. With a capacity of up to 23,500, cutting-edge design, and a ‘music first’ philosophy, it has already hosted global icons like Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish. Now, the venue is gearing up for one of its biggest moments yet - the BRIT Awards 2026, the first time the ceremony will take place outside London.
Co-op Live has quickly established itself as the UK’s biggest indoor arena, bringing some of the world’s biggest stars to Manchester in 2025. With a capacity of up to 23,500, it offers flexible layouts for standing or seated shows, plus more than 30 bars, restaurants and lounges.
This year has already seen huge performances from Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi. The venue has already hosted international stars like Nicki Minaj, The Eagles, cementing its status as a must-play for global tours.
Looking ahead, Co-op Live will welcome Lady Gaga, Pierce the Veil and Little Simz before the end of 2025. The biggest moment yet will come in February 2026, when the BRIT Awards are staged in Manchester for the first time, marking a historic shift away from London and confirming Co-op Live as the new centre of UK live music.
Have you visited the Co-op Live arena, how was your experience? Email socials@gigshack.co.uk or comment down below.