Celebrating Local Excellence at the 1066 Business Awards 2025!
In 2024, Let’s Do Business Group brought back the 1066 Business Awards, marking 30 years of providing business support to SMEs across the Southeast and East of England. Making the decision to bring back the awards for a second year, the 1066 Business Awards 2025 was held on Thursday 5th June at Bannatynes Hotel, Hastings, to once again celebrate the incredible businesses and individuals that enrich our corner of East Sussex.
At the event, local businesses were inspired by a talk from Jens Knoop, the creative mind behind Knoops, who shared his journey from a childhood love of chocolate in rural Germany to building a successful premium drinks business. He spoke about launching the first store in Rye back in 2013, which combined creativity with quality, and simplicity. Following the luncheon, Emily Craig MBE, British Olympic Gold Medalist in Rowing, delivered an inspiring talk linking elite sport to entrepreneurship, sharing her journey from a young rower in Crowborough to Olympic champion. She spoke candidly about setbacks, self-belief, and the pursuit of excellence, highlighting values like resilience, communication, and commitment that drive both sporting and business success.
Before we announce the winners, the team at Let’s Do Business Group would like to extend a heart-felt thank you to Oastbrook Vineyard who supplied the welcome drinks for attendees to enjoy, as well as to the talented photography students from Bexhill College who captured the day's special moments as part of a work experience opportunity.
The winners of the 1066 Business Awards 2025 are…
Business of the Year – Sponsored by FreshOnline
This award recognises an outstanding business that has set itself apart through superior leadership, consistent growth, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of its operations, the Best New Business category was awarded to Parker & Son.
Best New Business – Sponsored by Holland Harper LLP
Honouring an exceptional start-up business that has demonstrated unparalleled creativity, resilience, and impact in their early stages, the Best New Business category was awarded to 1066 Kitchens.
Lone Ranger – Sponsored by Fresh Financial Services
Recognising the tenacity and motivation of self-employed business owner that is the heart and soul of their business, striving for success whilst doing it alone, the Lone Ranger category was awarded to Tranquility Salon.
Growth Champion – Sponsored by Lloyds Bank
Celebrating a business that has exhibited outstanding growth in terms of revenue, market share, and overall impact on their respective industries, the Growth Champion category was awarded to Vehicle Smart.
Community Spirit – Sponsored by Lightning Fibre
Honouring individuals and the organisations dedicated to making a positive impact on their communities, the Community Spirit category was awarded to The Bright Foundation.
New Directions – Sponsored by Hastings Independent Press
Recognising a business that has successfully navigated change through innovation and strategic adaptation, the New Directions category was awarded to 3D Recruit.
People First – Sponsored by Kiley’s Karpets
Celebrating employers who prioritise the wellbeing and professional growth of their workforce, the People First category was awarded to Gaby Hardwicke Solicitors.
Future Leader – Sponsored by Bexhill College
Highlighting emerging talents under 35 who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities, the Future Leader category was awarded to Alice Doucy from Bournes Moves.
Extra Mile – Sponsored by Only Lifts
Celebrating an organisation that goes above and beyond, setting the gold standard for customer service and satisfaction, the Extra Mile category was awarded to Bodiam Boating Station & Lime Wharf Café.
Sustainability Champion – Sponsored by AAK BD Foods
Celebrating a business who is dedicated to implementing sustainable practices, driving environmental initiatives, and inspiring others to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future, the Sustainability category was awarded to Marshall-Tufflex.
See the 2025 1066 Business Awards Programme below!
We also saw 3 businesses who were highly commended in their categories:
Gatehouse Health – Best New Business
Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm – New Directions
Bodiam Boating Station & Lime Wharf Café – People First
Radfield Home Care – Extra Mile
Photos taken by Charlie, Holly, and Sammy | Bexhill College Photography Students
A massive congratulations to the winners and highly commended from all the team at Let’s Do Business Group! We hope that everyone had a wonderful afternoon celebrating and networking with local businesses.