Winners unmasked at night of celebration

It was a glittering night to remember as more than 300 guests gathered at the stunning Tewinbury Farm Hotel for the Chamber’s annual business awards – an event fondly known as the Hertfordshire Oscars.

Amidst the glamour of a masquerade-themed gala, the spotlight fell on the county’s most exceptional enterprises, with Waltham Abbey-based Bamboo Connect stealing the show as one of only two double winners. The global mobile phone distributor impressed the judges with its bold vision and commercial prowess, earning accolades for Inspiring Business of the Year and Excellence in International Trade.

Equally commanding applause was One YMCA, the Hatfield charity that has been transforming lives across Hertfordshire for more than 135 years. Their work in supporting individuals was recognised with awards for both Excellence in People Development and Property and Construction Project of the Year. Another standout moment came when FB Chain, one of the world’s oldest chain manufacturing companies, received the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Business award. Based in Letchworth, the firm was also highly commended in the international trade category – further testament to its enduring influence and forward-thinking ethos.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Steve Folland, was more than just a celebration – it was a vibrant showcase of Hertfordshire’s entrepreneurial spirit. Guests enjoyed live music, close-up magic, and inspiring words from Chamber CEO Donna Schultz, Chairman Jeremy Bishop, Lord-Lieutenant Robert Voss CBE CStJ and Paul Robin, CEO of Hertfordshire Community Foundation.

Reflecting on the evening, Donna Schultz said: “Another spectacular evening presented the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable organisations we have in our county. Judges told me that this year was particularly difficult, with so many incredible entries.

“The awards are, without doubt, one of the highlights of the Chamber year and I feel privileged that we have the chance to honour the hard work, innovation and dedication shown by businesses across Hertfordshire.

“It’s truly inspiring to see the breadth of talent and ambition in our local economy, and I want to congratulate all the finalists and winners for their outstanding achievements.”

This year’s awards were once again generously sponsored by Viatris and SA Law.

The evening may have ended with the clinking of glasses and celebratory smiles, but the legacy of these awards will continue throughout the year, shining a light on those who are not only excelling in business but also shaping a brighter future for Hertfordshire.

The full list of winners:

• Inspiring Business of the Year

Bamboo Connect Ltd

• Outstanding Contribution to Business

FB Chain

• Excellence in International Trade Bamboo Connect Ltd

Highly commended: FB Chain

• Community Champion

DENS

Highly commended: Small Acts of Kindness

• Excellence in People Development One YMCA

Highly commended: Harper Ashley Bowles Law (HAB Law)

• Diversity and Inclusion Award

HSP

Highly commended: ADD Vance

• Family Business of the Year

Tewinbury Farm Hotel

Highly commended: Hertfordshire Zoo

• Most Promising New Business Carbonology

Highly commended: Reneural

• Business of the Year Small to Medium IBC Simply

Highly commended: Union Business Finance

• Entrepreneur of the Year

Lydia Berman – Creative Stripes Highly commended: Paul Davis –Paul Davis Fencing Academy

• Property and Construction Project of the Year One YMCA

Highly commended: Hertfordshire Zoo

• Best use of Technology Cloud 7 Marketing

Highly commended: Pebble IT

• Apprentice of the Year

Dean Vaughan – SEC Group

Highly commended: Mohsina Shams –Watford Community Housing

• Business of the Year Medium to Large Sika

Highly commended: QCS Staffing

• Green Award

CHEXS

Highly commended: No Floor No More

• Workplace Wellbeing Award

QCS Staffing

North Hertfordshire College