The Herefordshire Business Awards 2025 are open to every independent business based in Herefordshire
The Herefordshire Business Awards celebrate the drive, creativity, and resilience of the county’s independent business community. Now in their 8th year, the Awards are free to enter and open to all independently owned businesses based in Herefordshire.
With 17 distinct award categories, the programme reflects the diversity of talent and enterprise across the region—from startups and retailers to sustainability champions and industry innovators. Each business may submit entries in up to two categories plus Employee, Employer and Business Leader.
Every submission is carefully reviewed by an independent judging panel of experienced business leaders and sector specialists. For each category, three finalists are shortlisted based on excellence, impact, and innovation.
Category Sponsors are invited to take an active role in the judging process for their sponsored award and help determine the final winner—offering a unique opportunity to engage with and support the region’s most promising businesses.
New Business of the year
Businesses running under 2 years.
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Small Business of the year
1-20 employees.
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Medium to Large Business of the year
20+ employees.
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Employer of the year
Demonstrating support and development of their team, prioritising staff and people management. The business ethos may support personal development and objectives making this business, the place to work.
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Employee of the year
The nominee will be a shining example in business. Going above and beyond their role. The individual may be productive, exhibit commitment to quality in carrying out job responsibilities, Be an asset to the business and a person who needs to be recognised for this outstanding commitment and dedication.
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Business Leader of the year
Started their own business, played a significant role within an organisation or had/have either a business directorship or leadership role.
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Retailer of the year
Independent retailers and outlet shopping destinations.
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Customer Service Provider of the year
Businesses that have demonstrated excellence and commitment in all areas of customer service.
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Sustainable Business of the year
Businesses taking positive steps to become more sustainable and reduce their impact on the environment.
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Professional Services Business of the year
Solicitors, Accountants, Estate Agents, Insurance, Financial Advisors or any other professional service.
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Family Business of the year
Majority of the business remains within one family for more than one generation.
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Creative Business of the year
PR, Print Marketing, Social Media, Exhibition, Video and Photography or any other creative outlet can enter this category, share with us how your creativity makes a difference in business and with others.
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Innovator of the year
Businesses demonstrating their creativity and new thinking which has led to change, transformation, restructuring, remodelling or revolution in a product or service.
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Charity or Social Enterprise of the year
Organisations using business thinking to bring about social and/or environmental change. Income generated through trade, reinvesting the majority of profits and overall being accountable and transparent.
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Entrepreneur of the year
Recognises a dynamic individual under 25 who has demonstrated exceptional vision, innovation, and resilience in building a business.
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Food and Drink Producer of the year
Open to any Food or Drinks producers large or small that have consistently made a real impact in the Herefordshire food and drinks sector.
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Outstanding Achievement Award
This category is the Winner of winners’ chosen from the previous categories by the Judges.
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