Businesses “winning in Wellingborough” were crowned at the borough’s inaugural commercial awards, launched to celebrate success.
Five accolades were handed out at the Wellingborough Chamber of Commerce Business Award 2016/17 ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, October 18, at Wellingborough Golf Club, Great Harrowden.
Rob Hart, Chamber President, said: “Our great town is on the up and growing again. That’s why we launched the awards as we wanted a chance to celebrate excellence and applaud the efforts of businesses.
“There are a lot of companies in the area which are showing promise in helping the town reach its potential economic output and we wanted to reward them. Supporting and helping businesses in the area to grow is hugely important. We are passionate about Wellingborough and want to keep it thriving so we can continue to attract people.”
Hampton Steel, of Sanders Road, secured first place in the Manufacturing Business of the Year, beating gluten free cake manufacturers Healthy Baker Ltd of Stanton Close and Bushboard Ltd of Rixon Road.
Dufeu IT Solutions Ltd, of The Old Pump Station on Furnace Lane in Finedon, triumphed in the services category, beating Chambers and Brighty Independent Funeral Directors of Buckwell End and Park Farm Industrial Estate’s Phoenix Training of Fleming Close.
Greg Du-Feu, Managing Director of Dufeu IT Solutions Ltd, said: “I am really proud to have won, it’s a testament to the team. We are constantly striving to go above and beyond for our customers and it’s nice to be rewarded with this accolade.”
Fab Footwear, of Nene Court, was the Retail Business of the Year winner. Brides of Wellingborough. located in Silver Street, and Market Street picture framers The Pixie Gallery were runners up in the category.
Julia Richardson, owner of Fab Footwear, said: “I am really, really proud. Our customers love what we are doing and to be recognised for all our hard work is wonderful. Scooping this award has really given us a boost and just goes to show that what we do is appreciated.”
Glamis Hall community centre, on the town’s Queensway Estate was also recognised for their efforts in the community after being presented with the Chamber Community Award.
Charles Wilson, Chief Executive of the international food distributor Booker Group, spoke at the event. He also presented the awards to the winning businesses.
He said: “We are winning in Wellingborough and it’s good to see local businesses receive the recognition they deserve. I was hugely honoured to be asked to speak at the awards ceremony and talk about my experience of business. It’s important we support Wellingborough businesses and keep the town economy thriving for our future generations.”
There were dozens of entries this year and membership to the Chamber was not needed to submit a competition application.
Entrants were asked to demonstrate excellence, specifically how they have made a pioneering approach to business as well as showing a commitment to furthering the prosperity of the borough.