Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has revealed the finalists for the Small Business of the Year Award at the 2026 Business Awards.
Sponsored by NSCG Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group, the award recognises excellence within businesses of fewer than 50 employees, looking at financial performance, leadership, staff development, innovation, environmental performance and long-term sustainability.
Now in its 11th year, the Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards is the largest business awards programme in the region. Winners will be crowned at a gala awards ceremony at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday 9 July 2026.
The three finalists are:
Aston Marina – What began as a marina and farm shop on the edge of Stone in 2008 has grown into a destination business spanning a 200-berth inland marina, the award-winning No.26 restaurant, The Boat House wedding and events venue, and The Hideaway private dining space. Over £1.5m of capital investment between 2022 and 2025 includes a solar array now generating up to 50% of on-site electricity, with a 35-bedroom hotel now in planning. Find out more about their application, here.
Kilncare Limited – Three generations of the Sherwin family work at Kilncare’s Baddeley Green factory, where 44 years of expertise have produced the UK’s largest art kiln manufacturer. Turnover reached £2.3m against a projection of £1.96m, with £2.8m forecast for 2026, driven by premium range expansion, strong Australian sales and a near-100-unit order from a competitor looking to replace US imports. Find out more about their application, here.
Xpert Recruitment Solutions Limited – Founded by Lindsay Mitchell and operating from Fenton, Xpert has grown turnover from £1.3m to £1.75m over nine years, built on long-term client partnerships rather than transactional placements. A care division launches later in 2026, with Lindsay herself currently completing a Level 7 Senior People Manager apprenticeship. Find out more about their application, here.
To find out more about the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, visit staffordshirechambers.co.uk/awards.
