Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District (BID) has revealed the winners of its inaugural business awards, with the spotlight shone on a host of small businesses.
The LoveNUL Awards took place on Friday night after a six-week campaign which saw over 550 individual nominations made and more than 5,000 votes cast.
An audience of 180 people were in attendance, made up of shortlisted businesses, partner organisations and sponsors.
Those honoured included Family Bakery Café (New Business of the Year Award), New Vic Theatre (Visitor Attraction of the Year Award), Caffe Java (Small Retailer of the Year Award) and Anasma Greek Bakery (Independent Business of the Year), which Daily Focus has previously reported is so successful in Newcastle-under-Lyme that owner Marianna Anastasiou has opened a second venue at The Trentham Estate.
BID Manager Charlotte Pearce said: “We’re thrilled to unveil the deserving winners of the very first LoveNUL Business awards.
“It’s heartwarming to see a mix of well-known local businesses as well as fresh faces and hidden gems amongst the victors.
“This celebration isn’t just about honoring the winners; it’s a tribute to everyone who was nominated and shown how the community – the shoppers, diners and residents of the town truly value their local business.
“As a BID, the team couldn’t be prouder to shine a light on their remarkable contributions.”
The full list of winners is:
Beauty & Personal Care Business of the Year Award – Toni & Guy
Café of the Year award – Piccoloco
Independent Business of the Year Award – Anasma Greek Bakery
Large Retailer of the Year Award – Vue Cinema
Market Trader of the Year Award – Cheeky Cheesecakes
New Business of the Year Award – Family Bakery Cafe
Professional Services of the Year Award – Thompson Wright
Pub/bar of the Year Award – Cappello Lounge
Service with a Smile Award – Toni & Guy
Small Retailer of the Year Award – Caffe Java
Restaurant of the Year Award – Anasma Greek Bakery
Visitor Attraction of the Year Award – New Vic Theatre
LoveNUL Community Champion of the Year Award - Alice Charity
LoveNUL Sustainability Champion of the Year Award – John Pass Jewellers
LoveNUL Rising Star of the Year Award – Shannon at Playhouse
The event was held at NSCG Newcastle-under-Lyme College and was headline sponsored by Keele University. Other sponsors were NSCG Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group, Panda Press, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, New Vic Theatre and McDonalds.
