Winners & Highly Commended 2025
Congratulations to all the Winners & Highly Commended Entries of the C2S Business Awards 2025!
Headline Sponsors
C2S Awards Official Event Programme 2025
Read more about the Sponsors and Finalists of 2025
Proudly Sponsored By
Best Place to Work Award
The Winner Is…
We’ve been a family-owned wine seller for over 50 years. It all started with Tony in 1969, on a university Geography trip to Bordeaux. Sent to dig up Roman ruins, he found something far more interesting … ‘real’ wine and the people who make it. Today, we have a larger family of winemakers (454 at last count), 400,000 lovely customers and a few more vans! We stop at nothing to bring amazing wine to our customers. If there is one thing that we love more than our wine, it’s our staff and customers. We are here to make sure that everyone involved enjoys their journey, from every contact, every case packed to every cork that’s popped. We deliver over 2.3 million cases per year and we live and breathe these words of wisdom…
“Behind every case is a customer and behind every bottle there’s a wine maker. Never lose sight of either!”
Winning the Best Place to Work award is more than just an accolade for us – it’s a reflection of the culture we’ve worked hard to build. We entered this award because we genuinely believe in the strength and spirit of our team, and we’re proud to see that belief has been recognised.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple truth: we are nothing without our people. That’s why we strive every day to create an environment where our employees don’t just come to work – they grow, thrive, and feel valued.
Whether it’s through continuous professional development opportunities or small but meaningful perks like team lunches every Thursday, our goal is always the same: to make our workplace somewhere people look forward to being in.
This award celebrates more than policies or perks – it celebrates a shared commitment to wellbeing, collaboration, and growth. And we couldn’t be more honoured.
Highly Commended
At Wagada, we do things differently. We make the complex simple, believing that less is more, we turn challenges into opportunities. As audience influencers, we shift perceptions and inspire action across Digital Marketing, Web Design, HubSpot, Employer Branding, AI, and more. Our core values – passionate, human, flexible, and honest – guide everything we do. We never stand still. We’re forward-thinking, creative, and intelligent, continuously pioneering new approaches to keep you ahead of the curve. Our transparency ensures you truly understand our strategies and impact. We build communities of loyal customers who genuinely connect with your brand.
At Wagada, collaboration isn’t just encouraged – it’s fundamental. Our strength lies in our people, and together, we create communities of loyal customers who genuinely connect with the brands we champion.
Highly Commended
At Clarion Insight, we focus on helping organisations shape, navigate, implement and sustain organisational transformations successfully. We enable our clients to improve how they implement lasting change, involving all levels of the business, from individuals, to teams, to the systems they work in.
We stay true to our commitment to put people first; from how we value our people, to and how we deliver for our clients.
We are driven by an understanding what of motivates people to support, embrace, and enable change. A single thread is woven through everything we do; an understanding that people make the biggest difference.
Category sponsor
Micro Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
Black Mountain Clothing is a dynamic micro business specialising in branding, embroidery, and printing. Our mission is to help businesses bring their identity to life through high-quality, sustainable branded clothing. In just 12 months, we’ve grown from serving 1 customer to over 3,000—driven by strategic investment in people, machinery, and premises. Despite market challenges, we adapted quickly with a service-led, community-focused approach. Our commitment to excellence, eco-conscious practices, and creative solutions sets us apart. Supporting businesses locally and nationally, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and innovation, giving us a strong competitive edge in a fast-growing and evolving sector.
Highly Commended
Dial A Geek is a B Corp-certified Managed IT Service Provider that specialises in cyber security compliance. Their mission is to help companies grow with a smart use of tech – and to do so while protecting the planet with a range of green initiatives.
The Bristol-based organisation revolutionises the tech market by putting cyber security at the heart of their Managed IT offering and providing most compliance in house. They are an official IASME Cyber Assurance and Cyber Essentials certification body, as well as a National Cyber Security Centre Advisor.
Highly Commended
Nomadic UK may be a small business, but our impact is anything but. We help businesses achieve huge results with impactful video content, and our dedication to excellence has earned us a Global Recognition Award for our work. Beyond delivering outstanding results for clients, we are deeply committed to giving back. Our annual charity Christmas ad competition provides a nonprofit with a professionally produced video, amplifying their message and fundraising efforts. Through innovation, creativity, and a strong community focus, we continue to grow, proving that a micro business can make a HUGE impact.
Category sponsor
Small Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
Holiday Architects has been designing and operating private, tailormade holidays to far-flung corners of the world for 15 years now: so if you want to spend two or three weeks somewhere like Sri Lanka, South Africa, or Peru (or any one of about 30 amazing countries), and you want to work with someone who really understands you to design a trip completely from scratch around you, then we’re the company to come to.
We’ve been finalists at the C2S Business Awards every year since its inauguration, winning the Customer Excellence Award last year, and then the Small Business Award this year, which we’re absolutely thrilled with! I think that progression from Customer Excellence to best Small Business tells a story: doing the right thing by our customers is a massive part of who we are.
At a time when a lot of the travel industry is in a race to the bottom, and it’s increasingly difficult to book your travels with an actual human being who sees you, gets you, and really wants your holiday to be amazing; we’ve gone the other way and doubled-down on the human connection. And it shows. Our clients really appreciate the relationship they build with the team member who organises their holiday, and that means they get so much more out of the holiday itself.
What underpins this is the way the whole team behave; only half the company are client-facing, but every single one of us feels the same pride about the job we do, and we all understand that if the client-facing team members are to get their plaudits (and ultimately secure the clients that pay all our wages), then everyone needs to be on top of their game. The tightness of the team, the willingness with which we help each other out, and the depth with which we genuinely care about each other are unlike anything I’ve previously experienced in 25 years of running travel industry teams.
A final element of what makes us unique is that we seem to have an instinct for doing the “right” thing. We recently submitted our initial B Corp impact assessment, having expected it to have taken a long time and some significant changes, to reach this point. In the end, we were already doing more than enough of the right things to have been able to submit with a score of 96 points, far quicker and with almost no changes to how we operate (for transparency, we were also able to lean on our already-certified sister company for guidance!). So, we expect to be B Corp certified in the near future, which will be the icing on top of a wonderful few months for HA!
Highly Commended
Adopstar is a dynamic agency that helps businesses navigate the complexities of advertising and marketing. Growing through the pandemic and beyond, we’ve increased our turnover by 226% in four years. Our goals are clear: helping clients maximise their potential with cutting-edge marketing strategies, maintaining an exceptional work culture guided by our values “Live, Succeed, Learn, Belong” and giving back to those in need. We are deeply committed to supporting charities and our local community, striving to make a meaningful impact wherever possible. As a trusted industry leader, we continue to drive success for our clients while fostering a positive workplace.
Highly Commended
SWIG Finance is a people-based lender providing loans and support to help smaller businesses in the South and West Country grow. We base our lending decisions on potential rather than collateral, which means we can often help when others can’t. We believe in equal access to finance for all parts of our community and we are working to create a more balanced and inclusive financial ecosystem by providing finance and support to under-served markets. We’re growing every year. In 2023/24, we lent £14m to 500 businesses, helping to create and secure over 700 jobs, generating £71.5m in social impact.
Category sponsor
Medium Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
SLG is a socially and environmentally conscious international beauty company, recognised as the creator of some of the most fashionable beauty products on the high street.
With over 55,000 points of distribution worldwide, SLG collaborates with leading beauty retailers, fashion brands, celebrities, and influencers, developing brands and product ranges that are either fully owned and operated or licensed.
In recent years, SLG’s dedication to innovation in both product development and marketing has been pivotal to its success, contributing to an expected growth rate (CAGR) of 23% from 2023 to 2026.
In 2021, SLG launched the world’s first haircare brand using entirely sustainable, 100% recyclable and recycled materials, significantly reducing the influx of new plastic into the supply chain.
In 2024, they introduced a brand featuring patented fragrance technology designed to enhance alpha wave activity in the brain, promoting feelings of happiness and addressing the convergence of wellness and beauty trends.
SLG partners with environmental and mental-health charities to raise awareness and funds for the causes underlying these brands.
Leveraging social media marketing, SLG has developed a unique expertise that enabled them to amass over 1 million followers and their social media accounts have become the most followed in their categories, reaching hundreds of millions of consumers globally. SLG was awarded Best Performance by TikTok in 2023 and continues to set industry benchmarks.
SLG was thrilled to be shortlisted in the medium-sized business category in the Circle2Success Awards. For the SLG team, it is a wonderful recognition of the passion and effort they bring to their work each day. For the SLG Board, it underscores the strength of their strategy to pursue growth while prioritizing creativity, innovation, and a set of values that focus on SLG’s stakeholder community.
Highly Commended
Stroud Brewery crafts award-winning, 100% organic and vegan beers, and its taproom is a community hub offering over 20 events weekly such as kids’ Lego-building, bungee aerobics and a neurodivergent support group as well as music, business meetings and weddings. It’s an exemplar of how a business can combine financial success with its responsibilities towards local community, wider society and the planet, and was the first UK brewery to be certified as both organic and a B Corporation. It’s come a long way in 18 years from the kitchen of founder and MD, Greg Pilley to a thriving business employing over 60 staff.
Highly Commended
Viper Innovations is a pioneering data engineering company delivering advanced solutions to the global subsea energy, rail, and industrial sectors. With a clear strategic vision, we have expanded globally, strengthened our workforce, and maintained a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and corporate responsibility. Our people-focused culture fosters excellence, ensuring high employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership. Through continuous investment in research and development, we drive technological advancements while upholding ethical business practices. Viper is not just a growing company—it is a resilient, forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a positive impact on its industry, employees, and the wider community.
Category sponsor
Large Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
We’ve been a family-owned Wine seller for over 50 years. We stop at nothing to bring amazing wine to our customers. If there is anything we love more than our wine, it’s our staff and customers (40,000 at last count). We are here to make sure everyone involved enjoys their journey, from every contact, every case packed to every cork that’s popped. We deliver over 2.3 million cases per year and live and breathe these words of wisdom…. ‘Behind every case there’s a customer and behind every bottle there’s a wine maker. Never lose sight of either!’.
We’ve been a family-owned Wine seller for over 50 years. It all started with Tony in 1969, on a University Geography trip to Bourdeaux. Sent to dig up Roman ruins, he found something far more interesting….’real’ wine and the people who make it. Today we have a larger family of winemakers (450 at last count), 40,000 lovely customers and a few more vans! We stop at nothing to bring amazing wine to our customers. If there is anything we love more than our wine, it’s our staff and customers. We are here to make sure everyone involved enjoys their journey, from every contact, every case packed to every cork that’s popped. We deliver over 2.3 million cases per year and live and breathe these words of wisdom…. ‘Behind every case there’s a customer and behind every bottle there’s a wine maker. Never lose sight of either!’
As a local Gloucester employer, our teams are passionate about what they do,from the teams packing ‘Magic in a box’ to our Wine Guides building lasting relationships with loyal customers. Our Customer Service is as award winning as our products, and we pride ourselves on getting things right first time. Sustainability is not just a priority at Laithwaites it has become who we are, striving to make the world of wine a much greener place. We proudly innovate and continuously improve at every opportunity. As a result of this, along with dynamic leadership we have delivered strong financial results over the last 3 years. Our ongoing financial success, product and operational innovation, and commitment to sustainability makes us incredibly proud to be in the running as a Large Business of the year.
Highly Commended
AIS is a major international business headquartered in Gloucester, employing more than 750 people across multiple global locations. As a leading provider of advanced material solutions, AIS serves the energy, marine, and industrial sectors with insulation, passive fire protection, buoyancy, cable protection, and battery protection systems. The company’s scale is supported by extensive manufacturing and testing facilities, and continuous investment in people and technology. Strategic acquisitions, including major expansion in the battery testing sector, and recognition as one of the fastest-growing businesses in the South West highlight AIS’ significant and ongoing growth trajectory.
Highly Commended
Markey Construction, established in 1963 by the late Brendan Markey in Gloucester, is a family-run business now managed by his sons, Tony and Paul. Operating in the South and Southwest of England, the Midlands, and Wales, the firm has grown from small projects to large-scale constructions. Recent notable projects include a mixed-use development in Cheltenham and healthcare facilities in Wincanton and Minchinhampton. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the company honours its founders and is committed to excellence. The leadership team, including Mickey Hibberd, Simon Taylor, and Alex Harwood, focuses on innovation and community impact, continuing to drive positive change in the property and construction industry.
Category sponsor
Change Management and Innovation Award
The Winner Is…
Hewer Facilities Management, with nearly 60 years’ experience delivering Heating, Mechanical, Electrical, and Renewable services across the mid and southwest UK, has a proud legacy of putting customers and communities first. Founded in 1965, we’ve evolved from a Gloucester-based plumbing firm into a forward-thinking, multi-disciplinary leader in facilities management.
We entered the Change Management and Innovation Award category to showcase our response to a growing problem in the heating industry, one that threatened the future of sustainable energy systems in social housing. The innovation that emerged from this challenge was Heat Saviour™, a revolutionary product designed to address the hidden, long-term failures of early heat pump systems.
Between 2009 and 2019, as part of a large-scale decarbonisation project, we were awarded a service and maintenance contract for heat pumps across several social housing properties. These systems, once seen as green solutions, began failing prematurely due to several key common faults, one being their reliance on manufacturer-specific, proprietary components that became obsolete within a few years. The consequences were severe: whole systems had to be replaced at high cost, even when only one part had failed, resulting in wasted time, money, and resources.
In response, we made a strategic decision to rethink heat pump design from the ground up. The result was Heat Saviour™ an entirely new system built on the principles of modularity, universal compatibility, serviceability, and sustainability. It uses non-proprietary, interchangeable components that can be easily replaced or upgraded, removing the need for full system replacements. The innovation lies not just in the product’s engineering, but in its practical, future-proofed design providing long-term value to customers and reducing environmental impact.
The change programme to support this innovation was substantial. It required technical R&D, new manufacturing partnerships, staff retraining, and a complete shift in how we delivered heating solutions. Over 50% of our workforce underwent specialist training, while engineers played a central role in design and testing. Their feedback shaped every detail of the product, ensuring it worked in real-world settings.
Externally, we engaged housing associations, councils, and residents in pilot programmes, using their insights to refine installation methods and optimise performance. The results speak volumes: over 1,500 successful installations with zero post-installation issues, a 20% reduction in disruption during fitting, and per-property cost savings of more than £2,000 compared to traditional systems.
From an innovation perspective, Heat Saviour™ isn’t just a technical upgrade it’s a reimagining of what heating systems can and should be in a sustainable future. It breaks the industry’s reliance on closed system designs and offers a scalable, affordable solution to the retrofit challenge.
Winning the Change Management and Innovation award recognises more than just product development. It reflects our commitment to leading positive, strategic change within our organisation and across the wider housing and energy sectors. Heat Saviour™ exemplifies how innovation, when driven by values, insight, and a real-world need can deliver lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Highly Commended
Colour Connection is your local design and print company, with a consultative and friendly approach from our team to yours, we can provide print solutions for company brochures and marketing, signage, clothing, merchandise, and exhibition displays. Like many print companies today, we have a strong environmental mission, but step by step, we’re achieving our goals! From implementing a new ordering system, integrating AI, investing in state-of-the-art technology, to our goods being transported via electric, generated by solar – we’re making things happen! Get in touch to find out how we can become your eco-friendly print partner!
Highly Commended
At Wagada, we do things differently. We make the complex simple, believing that less is more, we turn challenges into opportunities. As audience influencers, we shift perceptions and inspire action across Digital Marketing, Web Design, HubSpot, Employer Branding, AI, and more. Our core values – passionate, human, flexible, and honest – guide everything we do. We never stand still. We’re forward-thinking, creative, and intelligent, continuously pioneering new approaches to keep you ahead of the curve. Our transparency ensures you truly understand our strategies and impact. We build communities of loyal customers who genuinely connect with your brand. At Wagada, collaboration isn’t just encouraged – it’s fundamental. Our strength lies in our people, and together, we create communities of loyal customers who genuinely connect with the brands we champion.
Category sponsor
Community Award
The Winner Is…
The Everyman Theatre is Gloucestershire’s pre-eminent theatre – a centre for artistic excellence with a well-respected education and community programme. Over 220,000 people visit the theatre every year, enjoying a range of performing arts, drama, dance, musicals, comedy and an annual Christmas pantomime.
However, it may surprise you to know that a further 21,500 people engage with the organisation’s award-winning education and community activities. As a registered charity, the theatre’s profits are re-invested into its outreach work and the Everyman partners with local businesses whose financial support and sponsorship help power the delivery of uplifting and unforgettable projects, which enhance wellbeing and mental health.
Francesca Goddard, Corporate Partnership Manager explains: “We believe passionately that creative arts have the power to change lives, and we are committed to providing free or heavily subsidised activities for everyone to enjoy, no matter what their circumstance or background. Loneliness, isolation and poor health are increasing across society, often interlinked and affecting all ages. Poverty worsens health outcomes and limits access to arts and culture, yet time and again, creativity is proven to boost wellbeing and resilience. Recent Government research found that engaging in creative activities, particularly in a community setting, offers a non-medical alternative for improving mental health and provides a powerful antidote to isolation and social anxiety.”
With this mission firmly at the heart of the theatre’s community work, the organisation is expanding its current programme by creating a dedicated Everyman Education Centre opening in 2026. The new centre will focus on inclusivity and accessibility and will offer more of what the theatre does so well, allowing an even greater number of people to participate in its services: youth theatres; community choirs; Arts Awards for young people to develop confidence by gaining a nationally recognised qualification; teaching English through drama in partnership with Cheltenham Welcomes Refugees and Gloucestershire Association for Refugees and Asylum Seekers; dementia-friendly intergenerational activities, including singing sessions and memory café; school holiday provision for low-income families; after-school clubs and targeted creative health workshops for vulnerable young people and adults.
The theatre’s off-stage programme is as varied as its work on-stage and collaborating with charities such as The National Star College, Cheltenham Open Door, The Rock Youth Club, Insight Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire Deaf Association and The Nelson Trust, among others, helps people lead healthier, more engaged lives. Participants experience activities that broaden their horizons and skills, as well as being inspirational, fun and life-enhancing. The new centre in Grove Street will reach under-served communities across Cheltenham and beyond and will help transform the local community, playing a pivotal role in the continuing re-generation of an economically challenged area in central Cheltenham.
“We want to create a welcoming and vibrant hub, a source of pride for our community. We are keen to develop partnerships with like-minded businesses, organisations and individuals who share our passion to inspire, educate and entertain. We would love to hear from anyone who is interested in being a part of our exciting journey and helping us bring our vision to life.”
Please contact francesca.goddard@everymantheatre.org.uk if you would like to find out more.
Highly Commended
The Gloucester Rugby Foundation is committed to responsible practices across community, environment, people, and partnerships. At the heart of our work is a mission to tackle local challenges—supporting young people at risk of exclusion, exploitation, and youth crime through sport-led interventions. We champion inclusion, education, and well-being across Gloucestershire, with over £100,000 raised through our 4Ed campaign for families affected by MND. Our people-first approach empowers staff and volunteers, while strong partnerships with schools, local clubs, and suppliers ensure shared values and sustainable impact. With plans for an eco-conscious community sports hub, our legacy is one of purpose-driven progress.
Highly Commended
Premier Forest Products has community at its heart. One of our proudest developments is the introduction of a Corporate Parenting Scheme where we are mentors to vulnerable young people coming out of the care system, opening job opportunities in our business and helping them receive one-on-one support. We support the development of young people in our community through our apprenticeship programme, and we are partnered with a prison in the South West to rehabilitate prisoners in the final 12 months of their sentence. In addition, we support community projects, local sports teams and our chosen charity, City Hospice in Cardiff.
Category sponsor
Corporate Social Responsibility
The Winner Is…
STROUD BREWERY: DOING GOOD FOR OUR BUSINESS, OUR COMMUNITY, AND OUR ENVIRONMENT
Who says doing good has to be dull? At Stroud Brewery, we believe enjoying a delicious drink and having a good time are contributing factors to making a better world. During our 19 years, we’ve become a hub for Stroud’s community, using our beer as the spark for connection, creativity, and change.
In the brewery’s taproom, we bring people together to laugh, learn and have great conversations sparking new ideas and positive change. Being named the CSR champions in the C2S Business Awards is fantastic proof that our business approach is working and we were thrilled to receive this award.
The Community at Our Core
Local people have always been central to our story. They provided the initial investment to launch the brewery, and when the pandemic threatened our future, they crowdfunded over £114,000 to keep us afloat. Such is the high esteem with which they hold what we do.
Each week, at least 20 community-organised events take place here: from kids’ Lego club, bungee aerobics and board game nights to art and dance classes, a parent/carers’ support group, and music sessions. Many personal milestones are celebrated with us: weddings, memorials, and even a Viking-themed 60th birthday party! Plus we host the first meetings of new groups and charities, providing our venue free-of-charge to help ideas take root.
We even like to involve people in our brewing, providing plants to local gardeners & allotment holders whose hop harvests make our autumnal special, Brewers Garden pale ale.
People First
Our staff are the crux of the brewery and we’re proud that over 40% are under 24, with many gaining their first work experience here. Professional development is important for every team member, plus we offer free meals during long shifts, flexible working, and a paid day each year to volunteer for a charity. We were delighted to receive the Gloucestershire Inclusive Employer Award, recognising our commitment to being a supportive, welcoming workplace for everyone.
Planet Positive Brewing
We were the first UK brewery to be certified as both organic and a B Corporation, and one of the first to make all our beers vegan. Sustainability runs through every aspect of our operations. We use:
- 88% less gas use than the industry average
- 47% less water consumption
- and 88% less CO₂ in the brewing process.
We’re powered by 100% renewable energy, including 25% derived from our own solar panels, and collect rainwater from our roof to flush toilets. We’ve been named Plastic-Free Champions by Surfers Against Sewage, switched to wood-pulp based labels from sustainably managed forests. Read more about all we do in our Impact Report.
Brewing with Nature
Our core passion is organic brewing and this is about more than just flavour. Organic farms support up to twice as much wildlife as conventional ones, while healthier soils store more carbon dioxide, helping to fight climate change. Every beer we make uses 100% organic ingredients, supporting farmers who care just as passionately as us about a healthier future.
Why not join us?
At Stroud Brewery, we know you can run a thriving business that’s also good for people, planet, and profit. But the real reward is seeing people come together, ideas take shape, and our planet benefits from better choices. The proof is in the pint – why not pop in and find out for yourself?
Highly Commended
Gloucester Rugby delivers its CSR through Gloucester Rugby Foundation. The Foundation delivers impactful programmes focused on inclusion, education, health, and crime prevention. Gloucester Rugby embodies responsible business practices across all pillars of CSR—community, environment, workplace, and philanthropy. As the charitable arm of Gloucester Rugby, the Foundation It has awarded over £100,000 through its 4Ed campaign to support families affected by Motor Neurone Disease and launched initiatives like the Power Project—providing diversionary programmes for those at risk of school exclusion. Through strong community engagement, social responsibility, and a commitment to social equity, the Foundation drives meaningful, measurable change—making it a leading example of CSR in action.
Highly Commended
At North Tower Consulting, we specialise in delivering tailored software solutions in Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, and Lifecycle Management. At NTC we are dedicated to making a positive impact through our CSR initiatives. We have four committees where we aim to drive meaningful change in both our workplace and the wider community: Charity, EDI, Environment, and Wellbeing. However, our CSR efforts don’t end there.
As a proud holder of the Gold Covenant Award, we support ex-military personnel by offering career opportunities and a welcoming environment. We also engage with the local community, for example: we recently provided CPR training to students at a local school.
Proudly Sponsored By
Culture and Diversity Award
The Winner Is…
Cotteswold Dairy is an independent family dairy and our core business is processing milk and cream products, managing every step of the milk journey from collection from our local farms, to processing and delivery.
We are committed to our purpose of being at the heart of a responsible and sustainable dairy community and we work closely with our supplying farmers, employees, customers and local community whilst being mindful and accountable for our impact on the environment.
We are committed to all our valued staff and we are proud to be shortlisted for the Culture & Diversity award.
Highly Commended
ABP is a family-owned business offering beef, lamb, frozen, and plant-based products. Renowned for quality, traceability, and sustainable farming, we work closely with thousands of farmers to source grass-fed cattle for tender, premium beef. Quality is the cornerstone of our operations, driving every process and innovation. While meat processing remains central, ABP is far more—investing heavily in animal welfare, green technology, product development, and global partnerships in retail and foodservice. We continue to research, innovate, and evolve, embracing our heritage while looking firmly to the future. Our journey reflects ambition, inclusivity, and a commitment to excellence across every area.
Highly Commended
The University of Worcester has pioneered and developed a ‘whole university approach’ to equality, diversity and inclusion, examining every activity of the University and the way in which it promotes inclusion and participation.
Inspired by its founding mission ‘to win the peace through education’, Worcester has become a place where individuals can make the most of their own rich potential, whatever their background.
The University is the number one university in the Country for sustained employment and/or further study five years after graduation (LEO 2024, excluding specialist institutions), as well as being top in the UK for Quality Education and in the top 10 in the UK for Gender Equality in the prestigious Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings (2024).
Proudly Sponsored By
Customer Excellence Award
The Winner Is…
We’ve been a family-owned wine seller for over 50 years. It all started with Tony in 1969, on a university Geography trip to Bordeaux. Sent to dig up Roman ruins, he found something far more interesting… ‘real’ wine and the people who make it. Today, we have a larger family of winemakers (454 at last count), 400,000 lovely customers and a few more vans! We stop at nothing to bring amazing wine to our customers. If there is one thing that we love more than our wine, it’s our staff and customers. We are here to make sure that everyone involved enjoys their journey, from every contact, every case packed to every cork that’s popped. We deliver over 2.3 million cases per year and we live and breathe these words of wisdom…
“Behind every case is a customer and behind every bottle there’s a wine maker. Never lose sight of either!”
Customer Excellence:
Winning the Customer Excellence Award is a proud moment for our entire team – because for us, great service isn’t just a goal, it’s the foundation of everything we do.
Our customers are at the heart of our business. That’s why delivering an outstanding customer experience isn’t optional – it’s essential to our future, and it’s something we approach with relentless passion and enthusiasm.
We empower our people to do what’s right for the customer, always. Our no-blame culture ensures that when a team member takes initiative to create a great customer experience, they’re supported – not second-guessed. We trust our staff to act with integrity, and that trust translates directly into the service our customers receive.
We’re also incredibly proud to hold a Distinction-level accreditation in Customer Service with the Institute of Customer Service, which reflects the high standards we maintain across every interaction. But awards and accreditations aside, it’s our “stop at nothing” mentality that truly defines us – a mindset that drives us to go the extra mile and create memorable, meaningful moments for every customer.
Highly Commended
At Emerge Digital, customer excellence means building true partnerships, not just providing IT services. We deliver managed IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovation consultancy with a proactive, hands-on approach. Clients value how we anticipate risks, drive continual improvement, and align technology to business strategy – not just fix issues. Our 98.8% CSAT score and 91/100 NPS reflect an ethos of responsiveness, clarity, and real business impact. Every interaction, from onboarding to day-to-day support and strategic reviews, is designed to make technology a competitive advantage, allowing clients to grow their businesses with confidence.
Highly Commended
Square One Network is a Bristol-based telecoms provider delivering exceptional customer service to SMEs across the UK, with a focus on the Southwest. With 96% of support cases rated 5 stars, its success is built on fast, personal responses from accredited engineers and empowered staff who take ownership of every issue. Square One’s continuous improvement ethos, real-time client contact, and proactive account management ensure satisfaction remains high. By investing in staff training, customer journey mapping, and out-of-hours support, the company remains agile and deeply customer-focused, setting a high standard in an industry often dominated by impersonal, cost-driven service.
Proudly Sponsored By
Cyber & IT Business of the Year Award
The Winner is...
Emerge Digital is proud to be recognised in the Cyber & IT Business of the Year category; a testament to our excellence and innovation in the tech sector. As a leading managed service provider and technology innovation consultancy, we are passionate about empowering SMEs to strategically leverage technology to realise their business aspirations. Our expert team tailors solutions to the unique challenges and opportunities of each client, ensuring technology acts not merely as a tool, but as a dynamic force driving their success.
Our holistic strategy combines remote IT support with innovative services such as AI consultancy, process automation, and CRM development, all underscored by a commitment to cyber security and modern workplace. We believe that innovation is the key to staying ahead of the curve and delivering value to our clients. That’s why we are always exploring new technologies and trends, anticipating market needs, and developing cutting-edge products and services that enhance our clients’ capabilities and competitiveness.
One of our most notable innovations in the past year was the launch of OnyxSecure, a groundbreaking product that provides SMEs with access to enterprise-grade security for an affordable price. OnyxSecure elevates SME security to a level once exclusive to larger corporations, effectively countering the myriad of modern cyber threats. OnyxSecure packages multi-tiered security products into accessibly-priced solutions for smaller businesses, saving up to 60% of the cost compared to regular pricing. OnyxSecure is more than just a product; it is a revolution in cyber security for SMEs, enabling them to protect their data and reputation with confidence.
In the last financial year, we achieved a remarkable 30% growth in revenue, client base, and headcount, establishing our enhanced position in the market. We also strengthened our governance by welcoming two non-executive directors, including cyber security academic and independent government advisor Professor Richard Benham. Our exceptional customer service and engagement is reflected by our impressive 97% CSAT and 90% NPS, as well as our recognition as the top MSP headquartered in Gloucestershire by Cloudtango. We also actively collaborate with other leading businesses in the region to offer a more comprehensive suite of services, share best practices, and drive innovation that benefits not just our clients but the broader business ecosystem in Gloucestershire and beyond.
This award honours Emerge Digital’s outstanding and creative work in the tech sector. We appreciate this acknowledgement and are excited to continue our journey of growth and transformation.
Proudly Sponsored By
Cyber & IT Business of the Year Award
The Winnern is...
PentenAmio is at the forefront of secure technology innovation, delivering cutting-edge cyber and IT solutions for government and industry. Our specialist teams combine technical expertise with agile delivery to address complex security challenges in an ever-evolving digital landscape. With a strong focus on research, engineering excellence, and collaboration with trusted partners, we develop robust, bespoke solutions tailored to customer needs. Being shortlisted for the Cyber & IT category highlights our commitment to technical innovation, secure system development, and contributing to the UK’s cyber resilience. We’re proud to help protect national interests through high-assurance technology and forward-thinking approaches.
Highly Commended
CloudClevr is a leading provider of Cybersecurity and IT Managed Services, empowering organisations to protect, manage, and optimise their IT environments proactively. Strengthened by the strategic acquisition of Twisted Fish IT — an award-winning IT services company and direct Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) — CloudClevr Group delivers expertise across cybersecurity and IT services. Using its proprietary platform, Clevr360, CloudClevr helps businesses build future-ready technology roadmaps, maximise return on investment, and drive strategic growth.
Highly Commended
Since 2015 we’ve been helping local organisations across Gloucestershire solve their IT problems.
Our mission is to provide exceptional managed IT services, projects and support, while prioritising security and privacy of data.
To achieve this we implement solutions, support and IT projects, delivered using best in class customer service to ensure our clients are secure and always up to date.
Our solutions transform the way organisations operate and offer improved efficiencies, reduced operating costs and a competitive edge.
We have an amazing team of highly experienced people who are passionate about helping clients get the most from their IT.
Proudly Sponsored By
Early Careers & Apprenticesips
The Winner Is…
Founded in 1921, we created the world’s first thermostatic shower valve and we have been leading the way ever since. Over the past 100 years, the business has grown exponentially. Part of Kohler Co., Mira Showers is one of 3 leading brands in the marketplace and employs over 700 associates based across multiple locations of the country. We’re also part of a much larger family of over 30,000 associates across 6 continents. A lot has changed since 1921, but our dedication to design & innovation, and commitment to our people, remains the same.
Highly Commended
BPE is a full-service law firm with its head office in the centre of Cheltenham. We provide a range of legal advice for businesses, from start-ups to national PLCs, and private client advice to individuals in relation to wealth, property and family matters.
For businesses in the South West that need legal advice, BPE are the lawyers that give expert legal advice in a way that helps businesses to grow. We really understand the wider challenges businesses face and how legal advice needs to complement commercial activities.
We are so pleased to have entered the Early Careers and Apprenticeship Outreach award to showcase our excellent early careers pathways and varied options that we provide to aspiring lawyers, administrators, accountants and more!
Highly Commended
Grundon is the UK’s largest family-owned supplier of integrated waste management and environmental services. We are passionate about investing in people, supporting careers from the ground up. Our apprenticeship programme empowers employees to be bold, curious and eager to learn, helping them reach their full potential. With values of being quality driven, passionate and creative, we have built a culture of growth through various training and development opportunities, as well as volunteering initiatives and much more. By investing in our people, we ensure they have the skills and confidence to thrive, making a real impact within our business and beyond.
Proudly Sponsored By
Family Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
We’ve been a family-owned wine seller for over 50 years. It all started with Tony in 1969, on a university Geography trip to Bordeaux. Sent to dig up Roman ruins, he found something far more interesting … ‘real’ wine and the people who make it. Today, we have a larger family of winemakers (454 at last count), 400,000 lovely customers and a few more vans! We stop at nothing to bring amazing wine to our customers. If there is one thing that we love more than our wine, it’s our staff and customers. We are here to make sure that everyone involved enjoys their journey, from every contact, every case packed to every cork that’s popped. We deliver over 2.3 million cases per year and we live and breathe these words of wisdom…
“Behind every case is a customer and behind every bottle there’s a wine maker. Never lose sight of either!”
Family Business:
Winning the Family Business of the Year Award is a moment of pride for us – not just because it recognises our achievements, but because it celebrates who we truly are at our core: a family.
From the very beginning, Laithwaites has been built on family values. Even today, our founder Tony, though retired, continues to visit all our sites regularly – a gesture that speaks volumes about the passion and personal care that has shaped our journey. And now, with the next generation (Tony’s 3 sons, Henry Will and Tom) stepping forward and leading as chairmen, our commitment to those values remains stronger than ever.
Being a family business isn’t just about legacy – it’s about connection, continuity, and care. It’s about treating our people like extended family, fostering a culture where every individual is valued, supported, and given opportunities to grow.
We believe that the strength of our business lies in the strength of our people. That’s why we invest in development, mentorship, and continuous learning – ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive.
Highly Commended
Freemans Event Partners is an award-winning event partner, working with events and venues to constantly elevate the fan experience in the UK and across Europe. Celebrating 50 years of the business as we know it today, our roots date further back with that knowledge, values and vision still embodied by the company today. What started as a fish and chip van we still proudly serve the British classic alongside award winning street food and recognisable high street brands.
Highly Commended
Freemans Event Partners is an award-winning event partner, working with events and venues to constantly elevate the fan experience in the UK and across Europe. Celebrating 50 years of the business as we know it today, our roots date further back with that knowledge, values and vision still embodied by the company today. What started as a fish and chip van we still proudly serve the British classic alongside award winning street food and recognisable high street brands.
Proudly Sponsored By
Growth Award
The Winner Is…
Premiere Kitchens, started in 1989, are a Gloucester based manufacturing subsidiary of Markey Group specialising in the supply of ready assembled contract kitchens to the construction sector including social housing refurbishment and new build, both social and private. With a turnover of £22m and employing 140 colleagues, the organisation is purposefully led, meaning it strategic focus is to “change lives of the better”, meaning to create sustainable wealth, longevity and success for its stakeholders, colleagues, customers, suppliers, communities and the planet.
Premiere Kitchens entered the Growth Award 2025, after finishing runners up in 2024. Their focus was not just the vanity of financial growth or employees, but growth in totality as an organisation, a key factor to our success in winning the award. Their strategic focus is under 4 key dividends – “Premiere’s 4 P’s”, each with a clear deliverable goal for 2026. All have been achieved or are on course too.
Whilst the financial deliverables have been strong after a successful 3 year period that saw revenues nearly double and profits increase multiple fold, it was the other areas of success that equally stand out; a relentless focus on marginal gains through continuous improvement programmes that saw revenue per head grow 40%; being on the threshold of achieving Investors in People Gold, from 20 years of standard level, at the first attempt; understanding Scope 1 and 2 and working on Scope 3 with their supply chain; 12 month leadership development programmes for anyone line managing a colleague; 12 month self development Leadership programmes for middle and senior management; all linked to newly created “Premiere Development Programme “PDP” for all colleagues, linked to demonstrating delivering towards the 4 P’s, through showing our values; all of which led to an increase in employee engagement to an all time high of 70%+ in very category measured and a return rate from colleagues of 90%.
Premiere truly believe the key to their success is high employee engagement created through excellent leadership practices. Companies who have high employee engagement are rare as only 1 in 10 employees in the UK claim to have job satisfaction, therefore the data shows us that companies with high employee engagement out perform peers. This is the secret sauce that make Premiere Kitchens an outstanding organisation, because it’s colleagues are simply the best!
For career opportunities, enquiries or just a great conversation, please contact us through our website or call on 01452 886100 www.premierekitchens.co.uk
Highly Commended
Black Mountain Clothing is a leading branding, embroidery, and printing business known for quality and outstanding customer service. In the last 12 months, we’ve tripled our profitable growth through strategic investment in premises, machinery, and people. We’ve demonstrated impressive scalability while maintaining strong customer engagement and loyalty. Our service-centred approach combining performance, sustainability, and affordability has set a new benchmark in the sector. Purpose-driven and value-led, we proudly support local and national businesses in enhancing their branded uniforms. As we expand nationally and internationally, our focus remains on helping customers elevate their brand and bring their identity to life.
Highly Commended
Viper Innovations is a pioneering data engineering company delivering advanced solutions to the global subsea energy, rail, and industrial sectors. Our expertise lies in maximising the lifespan of mission-critical controls and electrical distribution systems through state-of-the-art cable monitoring, fault detection, and remediation technologies. With strong year-on-year revenue and export growth, we are expanding rapidly into global markets. Investing heavily in research and development, we drive innovation while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and workforce development. With a growing team and a focus on responsible expansion, Viper is poised to lead the industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that balance profitability, people, and the planet.
Proudly Sponsored By
Leadership Award
The Winner Is…
Andrew Hunt Founder and Managing Director – Holiday Architects
I founded Holiday Architects (who put together amazing, private tailormade holidays) 15 years ago and have been running it ever since. I wasn’t initially aware of my team were preparing to put me forward for the Leadership Award, and I definitely wasn’t expecting to win once shortlisted, so this has all been a huge surprise for me! I’m slightly uncomfortable with the spotlight being on me, as I think it’s in large part a reflection of where our whole team is at the moment, and that is more down to them than me. My feeling is that I can set the framework, recruit the right people, and create an environment where a team is able to grow this strong, but unless the team members themselves really buy into it, make the culture their own, and go out of their way to make it succeed, it won’t work.
Not everything we are achieving as a business comes from the strength of the team culture, but it’s hugely important, and is our real USP when it comes to our competitive set. Every company or department I’ve ever been involved in that has done great things, has done so, I believe, off the back of a team who love what they do, get on really well with their colleagues, and believe they are part of something really special. So, I see it as my permanent number one priority to create the environment where those characteristics and beliefs are able to flourish. So, for example, I spend a lot of time working out how we, as a largely remote workforce, can build friendships with each other. And to repeat a theme, it’s not about me forcing people to be friends, but thinking about how friendships are formed and trying to create those conditions. Friendship is built on trust; there are things that can accelerate the building of trust, like being vulnerable with each other, finding shared interests, and laughing together. So, when we do get together in-person as a business (once a month) there are no laptops allowed and I’m always looking for ways to use those opportunities to build trust and strong relationships within the team.
There’s a lot more goes into running a great team, not least the old adage of surrounding yourself (as a CEO) with people who are smarter than you: I have a great management team that fulfil this brief admirably. But at the heart of it all is my belief that great things are only achieved by great teams; and great teams being built on connection, trust, and a belief in the project. I also think if you’re going to say this is your belief, then you have to have the integrity to deliver on that: it’s not about magpie-ing the shiniest bits of great workplaces, it’s about viewing every single decision through the lens of “will it make the team stronger”. And I think whatever your core beliefs are, if you’re going to lead with integrity, then you have to absolutely commit to those beliefs.
Highly Commended
Tina Seymour Chief Executive – Hope for Tomorrow
Hope for Tomorrow is a charity that makes a life-changing difference for patients who need more convenient access to vital cancer care. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Executive Tina Seymour, who has held a position at the charity for more than 10 years, Hope for Tomorrow has revolutionised cancer care accessibility, reducing the travel and financial burden while improving quality of life for thousands of cancer patients. Tina’s dedication to patient-centric cancer care and community health equity has positioned Hope for Tomorrow as a pioneer in mobile healthcare solutions. The charity continues to transform cancer care for communities across the county.
Highly Commended
Cheryl Luzet Founder and CEO – Wagada Digital
Cheryl is the CEO of the multi-award-winning marketing agency Wagada Digital. She founded Wagada Digital in 2011 with a desire to create the kind of agency she would have wanted to work with as an in-house marketer. For Cheryl, being a strong leader is about encouraging her team to bring their whole selves to work and she firmly believes that a happy team leads to happy clients. Training and development forms a key part of life at Wagada, so the team always stays at the forefront of digital trends, and it able to share that expertise with clients to deliver the best results.
Proudly Sponsored By
Manufacturing Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
G-TEKT Europe Manufacturing Ltd (G-TEM) is an innovative, global company in the design, development, and manufacture of automotive body structures and engineering services. Established in Gloucestershire since 1996, they operate 5 production facilities across the UK and EU, and supply some of the largest and most prestigious automotive brands.
Japanese ethos and working practices have remained part of their heritage for over 25 years, using the skills, know-how, technology, and education from their parent company, the G-TEKT Corporation, to build a reputable brand that focuses on customer satisfaction.
As a large manufacturer, they recognise their pivotal role in improving the industry’s environmental footprint. As such, in 2022 and 2023, G-TEM completed two phases of its sustainability strategy, resulting in significant carbon emission reductions. This included the installation of a 4MWh solar array in Gloucester, natural gas elimination across their sites, and transitioning to an entirely electric forklift fleet. These activities are part of G-TEM’s long-term sustainability plan – geared towards meeting the company’s 2035 net-zero target across its supply chain, products, and operations.
Further to this, the company is reinforcing their commitment to upskilling local people through its extensive apprenticeship options, work experience placements, and graduate schemes. This aspect of the business remains a crucial part of G-TEM’s mission to give back to the local community, and to further position Gloucestershire as a key engineering hub within the UK.
G-TEM are continually innovating and evolving their operations on the path to Industry 4.0. Their achievements have resulted in being awarded major new business awards from long-standing OEMs, driving further growth to the Gloucestershire economy.
As G-TEM continue to evolve and reach exciting new milestones, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, driven by the company’s relentless commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community. As a finalist for the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year award, they are honoured to share their accomplishments with the wider South West business environment.
Highly Commended
Premiere Kitchens, established in 1989, excels in quality kitchen supplies, serving social housing and modular markets. With a 110,00 sq ft facility, it produces a kitchen unit every 45 seconds. Despite financial struggles pre-pandemic, Managing Director Andy Barham led a strategic pivot focusing on social housing, ensuring job security, and returning to profitability. The post-pandemic strategy emphasises sustainability, aiming for carbon neutrality, IIP Gold status, and significant productivity improvements by 2026. Premiere Kitchens has successfully doubled its sales from £10m in 2018/2019 to £21m forecast 2024/2025 and taken net profit from -£500k (2018/2019) to a forecast £2m (2024/2025)
Highly Commended
Vardar Systems Ltd is a Cheltenham Based Engineering company who manufacture specialist equipment to the flexible packaging industry making existing processing machinery more efficient. VarDAR Systems have a team of experienced engineer’s designers and industry experts to bring innovative technology to the extruded film processing industry. At the fore front of the business is the VarDAR DDF dual directional flow air ring for enhanced cooling. The VarDAR DDF system won ‘The Horners’ Award for Plastics Innovation and Design. The award is one of the longest-running plastics awards in the world, which is jointly run by the British Plastics Federation and the Worshipful Company of Horners, a livery company. The company prides itself on the quality of the equipment it manufacturers and the worldwide service and support it offers.
Proudly Sponsored By
Property & Construction Business of the Year Award
The Winner Is…
Established as a sister company in 2005 to the well known Glevum Windows, Glevum Windows Commercial serve the New Build Housing Market and work for the majority of the country’s major housebuilders but are adaptable enough to work with regional developers as well.
As a process driven and customer focussed company, Glevum work on housebuilder sites from Cornwall to Norwich and in 2024 installed over 18,500 frames into new homes across the country.
Glevum continue to invest in both new product offering and technology and are well set to help the country meet the Government’s New Homes targets.
Highly Commended
Markey Construction, established in 1963 by the late Brendan Markey in Gloucester, is a family-run business now managed by his sons, Tony and Paul. Operating in the South and Southwest of England, the Midlands, and Wales, the firm has grown from small projects to large-scale constructions. Recent notable projects include a mixed-use development in Cheltenham and healthcare facilities in Wincanton and Minchinhampton. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the company honours its founders and s committed to excellence. The leadership team, including Mickey Hibberd, Simon Taylor, and Alex Harwood, focuses on innovation and community impact, continuing to drive positive change in the property and construction industry.
Highly Commended
Founded in 2009 by Nathan and Jenny McLoughlin, McLoughlin Planning is an independent, results-driven town planning consultancy based in Cheltenham, with a growing presence in London. We offer innovative, commercially minded planning support across sectors such as residential, commercial, healthcare, aviation, and more. Our expert team delivers tailored, honest advice that consistently secures planning permissions while upholding community and environmental values. In May 2024, we expanded further by acquiring Plainview Planning Ltd., strengthening our capabilities and broadening our team. This growth enhances our ability to meet the evolving needs of clients, maintaining the integrity and excellence that define our consultancy.
Proudly Sponsored By
Sustainability Award
The Winner Is…
A certified B Corp and listed retailer, ProCook is committed to responsible business—reducing single-use plastic, operating on 100% renewable energy, and cutting our carbon footprint. Beyond sustainability, we invest in our people through volunteering, inclusivity, and wellbeing initiatives. Driven by innovation and a commitment to doing business the right way, we’re excited for what’s ahead.
Highly Commended
As the world’s greenest football club, sustainability is at the core of everything we do at Forest Green Rovers. We might be known for being the only vegan football club, but it goes much deeper than that. We’re continually looking at new ways to push the boundaries of environmental consciousness in sport, specifically through our four key pillars: energy, transport, food and nature. We’ve also made strides on-the-pitch by climbing up the football pyramid. Back in 2017, we were promoted out of the National League and reached the EFL for the first time in the club’s history – bringing our message to a greater audience.
Highly Commended
The University of Worcester has long been committed to sustainability, and its campuses are living laboratories for developing, testing, and implementing solutions that enhance the health of people and the planet.
Sustainability has been developed and embedded in successive Strategic Plans and the University has been awarded First Class Honours for 15 consecutive years in the People & Planet national rankings, which recognise environmental and ethical performance.
Students are trained as advocates raising awareness and developing skills which they take into the wider world. Annual campaigns and activities, such as Go Green Week, engage the university community in environmental issues and encourage behaviour change.
Proudly Sponsored By
Talent, Training and Development Award
The Winner Is…
Gloucestershire College is proud to have been named the winner of the Talent, Training and Development Award. It strengthens our reputation as a regional beacon for workforce-ready education and underscores our dual focus: enriching our internal culture while delivering meaningful talent pipelines for local industries. As one of the region’s largest training providers, we are committed to continually enhancing our services, investing in our people, and remaining both an organisation of choice for individuals at every career stage and a trusted partner for businesses building future-ready teams.
Focusing on Culture from Within
GC’s ethos is based on four core values: be responsible, be ambitious, be collaborative, be respectful. They are embedded in everything that we do across the organisation. Through initiatives like the Aspire to Management programme, dedicated leadership pathways, and flexible qualifications enabling Associate Lecturers to become fully qualified within two years, GC adopts a campus-wide culture of continuous growth and opportunity. With professional development days, staff wellbeing initiatives, and enhanced training in areas like digital, assessment, and safeguarding, more than 93% of staff report being proud to work at the College – testament to the strength of our people-centred culture.
Building Regional Capacity Through Apprenticeships
But the impact extends beyond our three campuses. As a training partner for over 1,000 local employers, the College supports more than 1,500 apprentices across 52 different apprenticeship standards, from entry-level to degree-level programmes. These span critical regional sectors – cyber, construction, engineering, professional services, and beyond – while many programmes offer entirely remote or workplace-based delivery, enhancing accessibility for businesses of all sizes and locations.
Innovative Infrastructure, Hands-On Learning
The college’s industry-aligned learning environments further enhance its training reach. With multiple specialised facilities – including the £3 million Advanced Digital Academy, the £5 million Sustainable Construction Centre, and modern workshops for
engineering and motor vehicle – we ensure learners have access to industry-ready tools and real-world scenarios. These investments not only strengthen educational quality but also deliver tangible value to the local economy.
Forward with Purpose
This recognition comes at a pivotal time, as businesses navigate economic pressures, rising recruitment challenges, and the need to maximise the return on every investment. Gloucestershire College is well positioned to help employers address these issues – offering cost-effective training solutions, access to skilled talent, and tailored development pathways that strengthen the workforce for the future.
0345 1552020
For business enquiries: employer.training@gloscol.ac.uk
Highly Commended
AIS, headquartered in Gloucester, is a globally recognised leader in advanced material solutions, specialising in insulation, passive fire protection, buoyancy, cable protection, and battery protection systems for the energy, marine, and industrial sectors. The company’s expertise spans subsea, offshore, onshore, and battery applications, supported by cutting-edge manufacturing and testing facilities. With a workforce of over 700 employees worldwide, AIS is committed to continuous investment in its people, technology, and sustainability initiatives, ensuring sustainable growth while making a positive impact on both the industry and the communities it serves. Recent strategic growth initiatives include key acquisitions, expanded capabilities in battery testing, and recognition as one of the fastest-growing businesses in the South West. AIS remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering high-performance solutions for the world’s most challenging environments.
Highly Commended
CCP exists to prevent the causes and reduce the impact of homelessness, family breakdown, and exclusion. With 280 dedicated staff and over 100 volunteers, we deliver services across the South West and West Midlands, including safe accommodation, tenancy support, and early intervention family services. Investing in talent, training, and development is vital to achieving our charitable aims; by empowering our people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need, we ensure high-quality, compassionate, and effective support for those we serve. Developing our workforce enables us to innovate, respond to complex needs, and make a lasting impact.
Proudly Sponsored By
Team of the Year
The Winner Is…
Hartpury University and College is a world-class institution specialising in education, research, and industry engagement across sectors including sport, equine, agriculture, animal and veterinary nursing. Home to over 4,600 students, it boasts cutting-edge facilities, elite partnerships, and a thriving community dedicated to excellence. Its dynamic staff work collaboratively to drive innovation, support student success, and enhance industry impact. Nominated for Team of the Year, Hartpury’s Business Development team drives investment opportunities, business engagement and partnerships to enhance the student experience and positively impact the regional economy.
Highly Commended
BPE is a full-service law firm with its head office in the centre of Cheltenham. We provide a range of legal advice for businesses, from start-ups to national PLCs, and private client advice to individuals in relation to wealth, property and family matters.
For businesses in the South West that need legal advice, BPE are the lawyers that give expert legal advice in a way that helps businesses to grow. We really understand the wider challenges businesses face and how legal advice needs to complement commercial activities.
The Corporate and Commercial team have elected to enter the Team of the Year award to celebrate their fantastic achievements throughout 2024. As a team they have successfully navigated change and continued to work with a wide variety of local and national businesses, supporting them to achieve their goals.
Highly Commended
We are a supported living and domiciliary care provider based in Gloucestershire. We support people aged 18 to 100+ who have a diverse range of needs. We focus on the person rather than the diagnosis and are dedicated to providing personalised care, recognising that everyone is wonderfully unique. Our supported living services are friendly, stimulating, caring, and homely. We offer many different services, providing opportunities for people to learn new skills, socialise, thrive, and have fun. We have an incredible team who are here to help every individual every step of the way. We do amazing things. Because we care!
Drinks Sponsor
Venue Sponsor
Media
Thank you to our Official Partners
