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Bedford Borough Shines at Bedfordshire Business Awards
Last week, the spotlight was firmly on Bedford Borough as the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce SME Bedfordshire Business Awards took place, celebrating the region's standout small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This prestigious event saw several local businesses take home awards, highlighting their exceptional contributions to the community and their respective industries.
Bedford Borough Businesses Triumph
Five notable businesses from Bedford Borough emerged victorious in a range of categories, demonstrating the diverse strengths and talents within the borough. The winners included:
- Food etc - Bedford Business of the Year
- Home Instead – Bedford - Employer of the Year
- Copybox Document Systems - Family Business of the Year
- Kings Arms Project - Not-for-Profit Business of the Year
- Love Hounds Dog Grooming – Bedford - Service Excellence
The wins reflect a blend of culinary excellence, compassionate care, family-oriented business practices, charitable endeavors, and superior service provision, making Bedford Borough a beacon of business success.
County-Wide Recognition
The awards were not confined to Bedford Borough alone. Businesses from across Bedfordshire were acknowledged for their achievements. Among the celebrated were:
- Taylor Walton Solicitors - Apprentice Employer of the Year
- i3 Simulations - Best Enterprising Business
- Verso Recruitment Group - Best New Business
- iCandy - Business Renovation
- Osborne Morris and Morgan - Best Business of the Year less than 50 employees
- Elite Law Solicitors - Central Bedfordshire Business of the Year
- Mind BLMK - Community Business of the Year
- Kent Brushes - Exporter of the Year
- Kings Fire - High Growth Business of the Year
- The Fruit and Veg Man - Luton Business of the Year
- Be Our Guest Princesses - Positive Impact Award
- Jodie Gearing Bespoke Jewellery Design - Retail Business of the Year
- Sommers Waste Solutions - Action Zero Sustainability Award
The diversity of businesses recognised underlines Bedfordshire's thriving and varied economic landscape.
Individual Achievements
In addition to business accolades, individual accomplishments were also honored during the awards night. The standout individuals included:
- Will Brown – Will Brown Hair and Open Chair - Entrepreneur of the Year
- Be Seen Screen - Influencer of the Year
- Michelle Crook - Reactiv8 The Nation - Business Person of the Year
These remarkable individuals have demonstrated personal drive, innovation, and leadership, contributing significantly to their fields and the wider community.
Reflections on the Awards
While the organisers, Events and PR, did not provide specific reasons behind each selection, the significance of the awards is undoubted. Justin Richardson, Chief Executive at Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the spirit of celebration and recognition that the event encapsulated. He noted, “It was wonderful to see so many people celebrating the very best of business in Bedfordshire.”
Among the highlights of the evening, iCandy was crowned the overall winner—a testament to its outstanding achievements and innovative approach. Nearly all Gold Winners, including iCandy, will advance to the SME National Business Awards Grand Final in December, setting the stage for further accolades.
Conclusion
The Bedfordshire Business Awards have once again highlighted the exceptional caliber of local businesses and individuals. With a myriad of successes celebrated, the event not only acknowledges current achievements but also inspires continued growth and innovation within the community. As Bedfordshire's businesses prepare to compete on a national stage, the region’s reputation for excellence and enterprise continues to flourish.
