Business Awards Celebrate Milestones and New Talent in Hull

The Hull & East Yorkshire Business Awards marked a significant milestone, celebrating 25 years of honouring business excellence in the region. The evening showcased a diverse array of winners from key sectors, including logistics, leisure homes, and food production, reflecting the dynamic business landscape of the area.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Peter Brown, a pivotal figure in the local business community. With an impressive 60 years at Neill & Brown, a global logistics provider, Brown garnered a standing ovation from the audience of 500. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, he expressed his commitment to the community, stating, “Our business started in 1917… I don’t want to sell the business, I want to employ more people and keep the business going. It is a legacy.”

The awards, now under the stewardship of local entrepreneurs Simon Jones and Jane Smallwood, celebrated not only established names but also emerging talents. Television presenter Gethin Jones hosted the event, which included a performance by indie rocker Fiona-Lee from Howden.

Among the notable winners, David Hall, managing director of Beverley Leisure Homes, was named Entrepreneur of the Year. His company also won the Small Business category. Starting his career as an apprentice cabinetmaker, Hall has built his business to employ 46 staff, including five apprentices. He attributed his success to teamwork, stating, “Being nominated is testament to how well we have all done.”

Soanes Poultry emerged as a double winner, taking home the Large Business award for the second time and the Environmental and Sustainability Award. Ben Lee, managing director, highlighted their efforts to improve their carbon footprint through a significant refrigeration overhaul. “It is great to have the recognition for all the hard work the team put in,” he said.

In the realm of workplace culture, ResQ was awarded Best Place to Work and also claimed the Innovation title. Chief Executive Gill Marchbank emphasised the company’s commitment to employee development, stating, “This award is about the career progression we offer; how we recruit people, how we train them and help make them be the best they can be.”

The Rising Star award went to Alex Pollard, aged 23, who has rapidly advanced from an apprentice to senior contracts manager at RMC Digital Print. Pollard expressed his excitement, saying, “It shows a lot of achievement over the last five years, not only for myself but for the company as well.”

The Start-Up Business of the Year award recognised Mopli Commercial Cleaning, founded by friends Dom Riley and Tom Newell. Newell reflected on their journey, stating, “We started this 18 months ago with a vision to build something that we could be proud of.”

Fast Forward Vocational Training, which focuses on engaging disadvantaged youth, received the Growth Award for its expansion across 35 centres since its inception in 2018. Co-founder Paul Thompson shared the impact of their work, stating, “We put students on the right track, getting into employment, turning them round from the wrong line to the right line.”

Another significant recognition was awarded to CatZero, named Charity of the Year for its dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals in the community. Chief Executive Adrian Tallon expressed pride in their achievement, highlighting the hard work of their delivery team.

The Team of the Year award went to the education team at The Deep, a well-known tourist attraction in Hull, led by teacher Jenny Thomas. Their close-knit team dynamic resonated with the judges, earning them accolades for their contributions to the next generation.

The evening concluded with a clear sense of pride in Hull and East Yorkshire’s business community. The awards highlighted the region’s commitment to fostering talent and celebrating achievements, with sponsors including the University of Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, among others.

As the awards continue to evolve, the legacy of recognizing business success remains strong, focusing on both established enterprises and new entrants shaping the economic landscape of Hull and East Yorkshire.