EBA Benchmarking Workshop 2026

Innovation without Compromise

21–22 October 2026 | Cardiff, Wales

In-person event | Hosted by the Welsh Blood Service

The EBA Benchmarking Workshop 2026 will bring together colleagues from across the EBA network for two days of practical exchange, benchmarking insights and peer discussion.

Under the theme Innovation without Compromise, the workshop will explore how blood establishments can introduce new approaches and technologies while safeguarding quality, resilience and continuity of supply.

The annual workshop is supported by the EBA Benchmarking Working Group and this year is hosted by the Welsh Blood Service.

Programme highlights

The programme will combine case studies, benchmarking discussions and interactive sessions, with highlights including:

• innovative approaches to donor engagement and specific donor populations;
• machine learning in platelet management;
• approaches to preventing or reducing plasma loss;
• blood supply resilience and digital tools supporting donor eligibility decisions;
• the 2025–26 EBA Benchmarking Scorecard, including discussion on future benchmarking priorities;
• interactive peer discussions focused on practical lessons and transferable approaches.

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The programme will continue to be updated as final speaker confirmations are received.

Registration

Registration is now open. Fee: €200 per participant (EBA members only). What’s included: Workshop participation, materials, coffee breaks and lunches, and the Day 1 dinner.

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Registration deadline: 12 October 2026 or until spaces are fully booked.

Welsh Blood Service visit and networking

Participants will have the opportunity to join an optional visit to the Welsh Blood Service blood establishment on the morning of 21 October, including an introduction to key areas of its operations.
The first day will conclude with a tour of Cardiff Castle, followed by dinner at the Castle, offering an opportunity to continue discussions and connect with colleagues from across the EBA network in an informal setting.

Who should attend?

The workshop is open to colleagues across EBA member organisations, from senior leaders to operational, medical, scientific, quality, donor, supply chain, digital and data teams.
It will be particularly relevant to those interested in benchmarking, innovation, operational improvement and the future development of blood services.

Practical information

Venue: Clayton Hotel Cardiff
St Mary Street
Cardiff, Wales, CF10 1GD
Accommodation: delegates booking directly with the Clayton Hotel can use the code CNF15DIS for a 15% discount on the available room rate.
Language: English
Travel: participants make their own travel arrangements and cover their own travel and accommodation costs.