Winners
Our 2023 Winners will be announced on Friday 21st April 2023 (4pm / 9pm) and will be posted here on 22nd April 2023 along with the judges comments.
Business of the Year
Shelforce
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Impressed by your huge business growth, with a record turnover expected at the end of the financial year. Impressed by your inclusive approach to employment and training, and a strong company culture – Well Done!
Female Entrepreneur of The Year
Elisabeth Brown & Emma Kiernan
Testimonial
With fierce competition in all categories this was a long debate among the judges who reached an impasse and we have two worthy winners that we were unable to separate.
Emma has excelled as a visionary business leader and has made a huge impact in the community through a series of groundbreaking initiatives all of which are reflected in the organisations financial success. Emma is as much recognised for her philanthropic activity as for her business acumen.
Elisabeth developed her business from kitchen table to Street food truck before her major breakthrough to supply the NHS with Afro Caribbean food, whilst maintaining her family commitments.
She recruits locally and is forging partnerships with companies offering synergy to grow her business.
Elisabeth is a prime example of how to grow from your kitchen table business to real success
New Start-Up of The Year
The Pursuit Agency
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
The Pursuit Agency has embodied impressive success since it started just over 12 months ago. In that time, it has already proven significant financial competency, making a profit in the company’s first month of existence – well done!
Young Entrepreneur of The Year
Louis Trent
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Louis Trent when he was just 18 set up his business. Louis did not finish secondary school or obtain any GCSE's but through the power of the internet, Louis researched and set up the Limited Company! Huge Clients like Co-operative Group
25 Employees
£1.5 Million Turnover What a Journey – we are Excited for your future!
The SME of The Year
Eden Sustainable Limited
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Eden has made this year's Sunday Times 100, coming in at number 36. 32 Employees £14 Million Annual Turnover
Committed to Sustainability You are meeting a global need and we are impressed with your journey / efforts – Well Done!
The Employer of The Year
Groundwork North Wales
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
This organisation has close knit staff teams working in an environment which empowers and encourages them to thrive. Their financial results demonstrate resilience, growth and sustainability. The “feel good “ factor of this employer is truly evident.
The Apprentice of The Year
Millie Sobey of Farnham Town Council
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Millie has been an exceptional Events/Business Apprentice. She started with Farnham Town Council in May 2021, and has far exceeded expectations in terms of her learning, contribution to the organisation and positive effervescent role in the team – Well Done!
The Charity of The Year
Weston Hospicecare
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
In addition to the free of charge support offered to people affected by life limiting illness, and expert care shown to inpatients, new and exciting developments are taking place for helping youngsters and bereaved people.
Outstanding Contribution to The Community
Merry Go Round Community Ventures CIC
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
An outstanding not for profit company combating rural poverty in their community in Devon, by recycling children's clothes and toys, etc with particular emphasis on school uniforms – Well Done!
Lifetime of Achievement
Phil House
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Starting Shield in 1979 at the age of 19 as a one-man band, Phillip went on to provide gainful employment to over 3,500 local people during his tenure. Phil returned from retirement to rescue the business and within 12 months it was turning a profit again!
The Leisure & Tourism Award
Cofton Holidays
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
A fantastic family run business that is continually caring, investing and innovating! Over 40yrs of leading the light in Devon Tourism! Your commitment to Sustainability is impressive – well done!
Male Entrepreneur
Rob Stone
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Despite very strong competition this “rags to riches “ story describe a driven and diligent man, determined to make a success of himself, despite previous setbacks.He strives to be a role model to his employees and empowers his team to succeed. And we are in no doubt that success will follow!!
Business Leader of The Year
Simon Crisp
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
Rarely do you find business leaders who are as compassionate, caring and selfless as themselves. Simon is a unique business leader; that he genuinely cares about the wellbeing of his staff. The company culture that Simon has created is a very altruistic one. Under his leadership the company has grown and is making a huge impact nationally! What a great example of authentic leadership! Well done!
Networker of The Year
Rachael Matwiejczyk Booth
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
With over twenty years experience of connecting businesses and individuals, Rachael is highly regarded for the quality of her connections and her generosity in giving them. There were a large number of Excellent nominations for Rachael and it is easy to see why - and easy to see why this nominee deserves to win
Innovator of The Year Award
Rockit
Testimonial
Judges Comments:
From small beginnings in a garden shed to global success and from one renowned product to a growing and acclaimed range, this is a phenomenal success story. With an evidenced commitment to using local suppliers and strong links to the community, the judges are excited to see what comes next for Rockit!!