The UK’s business landscape is buzzing with recognition as various awards ceremonies highlight the drive, innovation, and commitment of local companies. From ambitious leadership to environmental stewardship and employee dedication, these accolades underscore the vital role businesses play in community growth and development across the nation.
Key takeaways
- Numerous local businesses are being recognized for their achievements in leadership, innovation, sustainability, and employee focus.
- Awards ceremonies are celebrating a diverse range of sectors, from outdoor media and transport to biosciences and engineering.
- There’s a strong emphasis on resilience, community impact, and forward-thinking strategies among the award winners and finalists.
Ambitious leaders and growing enterprises
Mike Brennan, CEO of Halifax-based Outdo Media, has been named one of the UK’s Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2025. This recognition, part of a programme by LDC in partnership with The Times, celebrates entrepreneurs driving growth, creating jobs, and championing sustainability. Outdo Media, a fast-growing outdoor advertising company, is targeting £20 million in revenue by 2027 and employs over 70 people nationwide.
Environmental champions recognised
The inaugural Green Awards UK ceremony celebrated businesses committed to environmental responsibility. Nurture Group, a leading grounds maintenance provider, took home the coveted Green Business of the Year award, praised for its remarkable commitment to sustainability, emission reduction, and biodiversity promotion. Other winners included St Austell Brewery for waste management and Kepak for sustainable energy and water achievements.
Employer excellence celebrated
TransPennine Express (TPE) was awarded Employer of the Year at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Excellence Awards. The train operator was recognised for its people-first approach, fostering inclusivity, support, and career development for its approximately 1,900 staff. TPE has seen significant increases in ethnic minority and LGBTQ+ representation and has invested in wellbeing initiatives.
Innovation and community spirit shine
In Suffolk, two businesses from The EpiCentre in Haverhill were honoured at the Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards. Aceso Biosciences won the Award for Innovation for its work in stem cell research, while 1956 Individuals (SKC Studios) received a Highly Commended accolade for their AI-driven storytelling. These awards highlight the vibrant and collaborative environment within The EpiCentre.
Meanwhile, Ideal Extraction Ltd, a family-run engineering firm in Ilkley, has been named a finalist in the Yorkshire & Humberside Family Business Awards. Specialising in dust and fume extraction systems, the company was recognised for its strong values, innovation, and commitment to its people and community, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to business.
### Sources
- Outdo’s CEO named one of the UK’s Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2025, Outsmart Out of Home Ltd.
- Nurture Group takes top honours as Green Business of the Year 2025, The Times.
- TransPennine Express named Employer of the Year at Greater Manchester business awards, Rail Business Daily.
- EpiCentre Businesses Shine at Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards 2025, UK Science Park Association.
- Ideal Extraction named as finalist in prestigious business awards, Ilkley Chat Website.
