Staffordshire’s most outstanding businesses were honoured last night at the 11th annual Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
Held in the Final Furlong Marquee at Uttoxeter Racecourse, the awards drew the biggest crowd in their history as hundreds of guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of local businesses.
It was the most competitive application process in the awards’ history, with a record number of entries received from businesses across Staffordshire.
Taking home the coveted Business of the Year Award was The HEX Group, capping a memorable night for the business which also saw their employee Andy Gear named winner of the Learning, Skills and Development Award.
It was a double celebration too for AMB Insurance, who won the Professional Services Award before being named joint winners of the Responsible Business of the Year Award alongside Midlands Air Ambulance.
The full list of winners include:
| Category | Sponsor | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Business of the Year | HSBC | The HEX Group |
| Medium/Large Business of the Year | Dains | Drayton Beaumont |
| Small Business of the Year | NSCG | Aston Marina |
| Manufacturer of the Year | Indurent | Goodwin International |
| Entrepreneur of the Year | University of Staffordshire | Roger Wertheim-Aymes, Allicio Nutrition |
| Start-Up & Step-Up | Staffordshire County Council | Chef Lucas Catering Services |
| International Trade | Welfare Vans for Less | AVD Fire |
| Innovation, Science & Technology | EPX IT | Valentine Clays |
| Professional Services of the Year | Plinkfizz | AMB Insurance |
| Hospitality, Leisure & Tourism | Wilkinson Collective | bet365 Stadium |
| Learning, Skills & Development | Keele University | Andy Gear, The HEX Group |
| Employee of the Year | Ornua | Kris Wainwright, Eden Holistic Pet Foods |
| Employer of the Year | Consultiv Utilities | SYTECH Consultants |
| Customer Service Excellence | NBE Brokers | EweMove Stafford |
| Sustainability & Environment | Capula | Altecnic |
| Responsible Business of the Year | Rydale Roofing | AMB Insurance and Midlands Air Ambulance |
| Ambassador of the Year | We Are Staffordshire | Kerrie Pope, Trentham Estate |
All winners were presented with a bespoke plate handcrafted by Duchess China 1888, one of Staffordshire’s oldest fine bone china manufacturers. The Longton-based firm created a design reflecting this year’s bold and vibrant theme, continuing the county’s proud tradition of world-class ceramics.
Stuart Elford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, attending his first Business Awards since joining the Chamber, said: “Staffordshire truly knows how to put on a show. My first Business Awards exceeded all of my expectations, from the record-breaking field of entries to the calibre of the finalists in the room.
“What struck me most was the sheer range of businesses represented: manufacturers and hospitality venues, family firms and fast-growing start-ups, businesses serving their local high street and businesses exporting around the world.
“Congratulations to every one of our winners and finalists, and a special mention to The HEX Group, a worthy Business of the Year and a brilliant example of what Staffordshire businesses are capable of.”
New for 2026, an official after-party saw celebrations continue long into the night, with music provided by a late night DJ.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce would like to extend its thanks to all of the sponsors, partners, judges, and attendees whose invaluable support contributed to the resounding success of the 2026 Business Awards.
For more information about Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and its initiatives, please visit StaffordshireChambers.co.uk/awards
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