“A great boost for staff morale”: Businesses urged to enter East Staffordshire & South Derbyshire Business Awards as deadline approaches

1 min read

Companies across East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire have been urged to put themselves in the running for the biggest annual celebration of business success in the region – with a previous winner saying the recognition gave its workforce a major morale boost.

The East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards return for a 16th year on Thursday, 12 November, and the deadline for submissions is approaching.

Burton upon Trent manufacturer Wright Rubber has encouraged local businesses to enter after winning Manufacturer of the Year at last year’s awards, describing the achievement as a “great boost for staff morale”.

Managing Director Laura Hill said: “Winning Manufacturer of the Year at the awards ceremony last year really was a highlight for us. We were undecided about whether to enter at first and, after taking the plunge, to win the category was a real honour.

“Seeing the team on stage accepting the award and being recognised for all their hard work, was such an achievement – and a great boost for staff morale.

“Filling in the application form was simple and I would recommend any local businesses to take part. It isn’t always easy to shout about the great things that you do in business, but it is absolutely what we should all be doing.

“We are privileged to sit alongside some amazing businesses in the local area and the awards certainly help to spread the word about the great work that is achieved across East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire.”

Laura Hill, Managing Director, being presented with the Manufacturer of the Year Award by host Dave Bryon at the 2026 East Staffordshire & South Derbyshire Business Awards

The awards recognise businesses across all sectors for their achievements, innovation, growth and contribution to the local economy.

More than 300 guests are expected to attend the Gala Awards Evening at the Pirelli Stadium, home of Burton Albion FC.

There are 10 award categories available to enter, covering everything from business growth and innovation to customer service, manufacturing, hospitality and retail. Businesses can also enter more than one category.

Entries are free and close on Friday, 18 September.

Businesses can submit their applications via the awards website, here.

Tom Hammersley

Senior Content and Social Media Lead at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Latest from Blog