The winners of July’s 22-category iGB Affiliate Awards will be honoured in front of their peers in the salubrious surroundings of The Shard, the iconic landmark located in the heart of London.

The Shard was created as an architecturally stunning Vertical City emerging from the Thames and at just under 310 metres high (1,016 feet) is Western Europe’s tallest building.

Announcing the choice of the stunning new location to host what’s regarded as being the most democratic and transparent Awards in the gaming space World Gaming Group Managing Director Alex Pratt said: “Every live event has to evolve in parallel with the changing tastes and needs of its community of stakeholders.

“The Shard is one of London’s smartest, contemporary venues and one that chimes with the energy and personality of a dynamic sector that’s underpinned by a progressive ‘can do’ outlook.”

He added: “The Awards will take place in the Aqua Shard Restaurant which is located on the 31st floor. We’ve replaced the traditional table lay-out with a standing format that that will enable everyone to network more widely and freely. Our aim is to reintegrate the ceremony into the flow of the evening and back into the heart of the awards experience.

“Over a million people visited the Shard in its first year with the structure beating 300 skyscrapers to win the international Emporis Skyscraper Award. The Shard is an unforgettable venue and I’m sure that the industry will embrace its outstanding architecture and ambience.”

The iGB Affiliate Awards will open at 8pm on 2 July with food served as a series of bowls, bites and canapes curated by Aqua Shard Executive Chef Mark Abbot.