ECR Writing Retreat 2026

Date: Monday 6th July 2026
Location: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, UK

The Academy of Marketing is organising a Writing Retreat for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) funded by the Marketing Trust. This one-day event provides a dedicated and structured space for focused academic writing ahead of the annual conference. Designed to support productivity and peer engagement, the retreat brings together ECRs to make meaningful progress on their work in a supportive, distraction-free environment.

Participants will spend the day working on a self-selected writing project (e.g., a journal article, conference paper, book chapter, funding application) through a series of structured writing sessions, breaks, peer feedback, and reflective discussions. The retreat encourages goal-setting, sustained focus, and collaborative support, helping attendees to refine ideas, strengthen structure, and advance their work.

To make the most of the event, participants are encouraged to come prepared with a clearly defined writing project, relevant materials, and specific goals for the day. During the retreat, emphasis is placed on minimising distractions, maintaining focus during writing sessions, and engaging in constructive peer discussion.

The programme includes:

• Structured, uninterrupted writing blocks
• Opportunities for peer feedback and discussion
• Scheduled breaks to support reflection and planning
• A collaborative and motivating writing environment

The day concludes with the Academy of Marketing Doctoral Colloquium Gala Dinner, offering further opportunities for networking and community building.

This retreat is ideal for ECRs looking to make significant progress on a writing project while benefiting from the accountability and support of a like-minded academic community.

Registration and Bursaries

Participation will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and spaces are limited to 30 participants to ensure a focused and impactful day.

To register your interest, please complete the online questionnaire AM26 ECR Writing Retreat – Google Forms.

A limited number of bursaries are available to support ECR participation. To apply, please email ines.branco-illodo@stir.ac.uk and knighth4@cardiff.ac.uk with your details.

We hope you can join us for a productive day of writing.