The East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards returned to the Pirelli Stadium last night, bringing together the region’s leading businesses to celebrate another year of outstanding achievement, innovation and community impact.
A sold-out audience of more than 300 guests gathered to applaud 11 category winners at what remains the biggest annual celebration of business success in the area.
Hixon-based The HEX Group was crowned this year’s prestigious Business of the Year, impressing the judges with its exceptional growth, innovation and commitment to excellence.
A full list of category winners for the East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards 2025 is as follows:
| Award Name | Sponsor | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Business of the Year | Dains | The HEX Group |
| Employer of the Year | Consultiv Utilities | TwoTwenty |
| Young Employee of the Year | Burton and South Derbyshire College | Kaitlyn Watson of Bloods & Beyond |
| Rising Star Awards | Hex Group | Nathan Kinson of Toons Furnishers |
| Most Promising Start-Up Business | Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Skills Hub | Hardwick Studio Architects |
| Small Business of the Year | Timms Solicitors | Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy |
| Medium Business of the Year | Ironmarket | Swarkestone Nursery & Garden Centre |
| Best Customer Service | Burton and District Chamber of Commerce | Sexual Abuse Rape Advice Centre (SARAC) |
| Manufacturer of the Year | Malone Group | Wright Rubber |
| Best Use of Innovation or Technology | JCB | Devtank |
| Leisure, Hospitality & Retail | Uttoxeter Racecourse | Chef Lucas Catering Services |
A full gallery of images from the evening will be shared next week.
Awards organiser and host, Dave Bryon, said: “This year’s event once again demonstrated the incredible depth of talent and innovation that defines our local business community.
“Every finalist and winner should be proud of their achievements during the last 12 months and beyond.”
Event Host Jules O’Brian, who was hosting the awards for the first time, added: “As a newcomer to the event, I was genuinely inspired by the energy and enthusiasm in the room.
“It’s clear that these awards mean so much to the people and businesses involved.
“Congratulations to all the winners. Your passion and excellence continue to drive our region forward and a huge thank you to the sponsors and supporters who make it all possible.”
