Businesses across the Lichfield district are being encouraged to showcase their achievements over the past year by entering the 2026 Beacon Awards.
The awards return following a record-breaking 2025, which saw nominations increase by 68% compared with the previous year, before almost 250 guests came together for a sell-out celebration.
There are 10 awards up for grabs, including New Business of the Year, Customer Experience Award, Hospitality Business of the Year, Industry and Enterprise Award and prizes for small and large businesses.
Last year, Lichfield Maize Maze won Small Business of the Year and the Sustainable Business Award, while Lichfield Garrick Theatre held on to the best large business title, Palletways took the Logistics and Transport Award, and The Boat won the Tourism and Hospitality Award.
Nominations for this year’s awards, which are organised by Lichfield District Council, are open now, and close on 16 October.
Submissions will then be considered by an independent judging panel made up of representatives from businesses and organisations across the district and wider region.
Finalists will be invited to the Beacon Awards ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum on Thursday, 3 December.
Councillor Richard Holland, the district council’s cabinet member for high street and economic development, said: “The Beacon Awards are all about celebrating the brilliant businesses, organisations and people we have across Lichfield District and giving them the recognition they deserve.
“Last year we had a record response and a sell-our awards evening, with businesses of all shapes and sizes recognised for everything from growth and customer service to sustainability and their contribution to our communities.
“We know there are many more great stories to tell across our district so I’d encourage businesses not to be shy about putting themselves forward.
“Whether you’ve grown, tried something new, supported your community, delivered a brilliant service or simply has a year you’re really proud of, we want to hear about it.”
- To find out more about the awards, and to submit an entry, follow this link.
- Read more about last year’s winners here.
