Rochdale celebrates the best in business

Posted by on 7 Nov 2023

Over 250 people from Rochdale’s thriving business community gathered at Number One Riverside on Friday for the 10th Rochdale Business Awards.

Neil Emmott, leader of Rochdale Borough Council, welcomed guests to the event which returned after a four year hiatus due to covid and the refurbishment of the Town Hall.

The glittering awards ceremony and gala dinner has become a go to event, with finalists, sponsors and their guests coming together to celebrate the achievements and contribution that Rochdale businesses make to the borough. The event also raised over £1500 for Springhill Hospice.

In total, eight awards were presented, with all 23 finalists, from a broad range of sectors including manufacturing, hospitality, care and technology, receiving a framed certificate on stage.

There were tears and huge cheers as videos of the finalists appeared on the big screen before the golden envelope was opened to reveal the winner of each category with many continuing to celebrate into the early hours at the after show party at Bombay Brew.

This year’s winners were:

Apprentice of the Year – Ellie Burke, Rochdale Gateway Leisure Ltd
Apprenticeship Employer of the Year – A&F Sprinklers Ltd
Sustainable Environmental Business – Deckers Hospitality Group
Business Person of the Year – Karen Turner, Kandy Kitchen Creations Ltd
New Business of the Year – The Funky Deer Sports Club Merchandise
Business of the Year turnover up to £1m – No Fuss IT
Business of the Year turnover £1m - £5m – Castleton Timber Ltd
Business of the Year turnover over £5m – Dunsters Farm

Councillor Mike Holly, the Mayor of Rochdale said “Huge congratulations to all the finalists. It was a fabulous evening that showcased the breadth of successful business and talented individuals we have within our business community. I can’t imagine how difficult it was to choose the winners – they were all brilliant.”

Earlier in the evening, Councillor Neil Emmott, Leader of the Council, spoke of how Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood and the Pennine district are truly leading the way when it comes to innovation.

“Business is the lifeblood of our communities – providing our residents with jobs, security and futures. I have seen first-hand how businesses contribute to our success and I am proud of the innovation and energy that I witness.”