Key Points
- The fourth annual Havering Small Business Awards took place on 24 September 2025 at Lumiere Romford, Mercury Mall, Romford.
- Winners across 11 categories were announced, including Best Newcomer, Best Small or Independent Business, and Best Tradesperson.
- Nick’s Locks won both Best Tradesperson and the overall Havering Small Business of the Year, receiving a £25,000 advertising package from JC Decaux UK.
- The ceremony was hosted by Mark Dover from Nation Radio London and sponsored by various local businesses and organisations.
- Councillor Ray Morgon praised the innovation, resilience, and community spirit demonstrated by the local businesses.
- Joe Arthur from Wates Residential, the main sponsor, emphasised the importance of these awards for showcasing the talent and breadth of Havering’s entrepreneurs.
What Happened at the Havering Small Business Awards 2025?
Small businesses across Havering were celebrated on the evening of Wednesday, 24 September 2025, at the fourth annual Havering Small Business Awards, held at Lumiere Romford, Mercury Mall, Romford. The event shone a spotlight on the borough’s vibrant and resilient business community through a spirited ceremony hosted by Mark Dover, representing the media sponsor Nation Radio London (Havering.gov.uk).
Finalists and attendees enjoyed a drinks reception sponsored by Elm Site Services before the awards presentation. Winners received a trophy, certificates, and a vinyl ‘winner’ sticker to proudly display at their business premises, marking their achievement.
Who Were the Winners at the Awards?
The 2025 winners spanned a variety of sectors, reflecting the diverse economic fabric of Havering. According to the official Havering Council news release, the full list of award winners is as follows:
- Best Newcomer: InkTree Education, supported by Havering Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- Best Small or Independent Business: May Residential Homes Ltd, sponsored by Lumiere Romford.
- Best Beauty or Service Business: Utopia Beauty and Advanced Skincare, sponsored by The Havering Daily.
- Best Takeaway: The Fat Pizza, Elm Park, sponsored by The Havering Daily.
- Best Hospitality Business: The Hop Inn, sponsored by Hills Prospect.
- Best Customer Experience: Serene Mind Ltd, sponsored by Oakleafe Claims.
- Best Tradesperson: Nick’s Locks, sponsored by Marlborough.
- Best Shopfront: The Picture Frame Gallery, sponsored by Sureserve Compliance South.
- Best Social Enterprise or CIC: Thames Chase Community Forest, sponsored by CEME.
- Best Sustainable Business: Quantum Group, sponsored by CEME.
What Made Nick’s Locks Stand Out as the Business of the Year?
Nick’s Locks not only won the Best Tradesperson award but was also named Havering Small Business of the Year. Joe Arthur, Head of Development at Wates Residential—the main sponsor of the event—presented this top accolade.
Nick, the owner of Nick’s Locks, expressed his excitement: “I’m absolutely chuffed – honestly, a bit speechless. For years it’s just been me and my partner working hard through some really tough times, so to win not one but two awards tonight means the world. I want to thank all of our amazing customers for their support, and also my social media lead who’s helped us reach even more people. This recognition is something I’ll never forget”.
The business also won a £25,000 advertising package courtesy of JC Decaux UK, a prize designed to further boost their visibility in the local community.
How Did Local Officials React to the Awards?
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, praised the event’s role in highlighting the borough’s economic strengths and community spirit. He stated:
“These awards truly showcase the innovation, resilience, and community spirit of Havering’s small businesses and could not be achieved without the support of the public, businesses and all our sponsors…. It is inspiring for all of us. Huge congratulations to all our nominees, finalists, and winners. You are the driving force behind our borough’s success.
These awards are an example of this administration support for our businesses in Havering which also includes our Keep it Local campaign, ensuring local businesses benefit from contracts and investing in skills and helping them grow”.
Who Else Contributed to the Awards and What Is Their Vision?
Joe Arthur from Wates Residential added: “Wates Residential is proud to be the key sponsor of this year’s Havering Small Business Awards. Our ongoing Joint Venture partnership with Havering Council, now in its seventh year, has given us a unique insight into the vibrant local community.
We have really enjoyed being a part of the awards again this year – learning about the nominated businesses and the impressive number of nominations is testament to the breadth of business and talent of entrepreneurs in Havering”.
What Makes These Awards Important for Havering?
The Havering Small Business Awards highlight the borough’s commitment to supporting local businesses through initiatives like the Keep it Local campaign. They also promote awareness of sustainability, customer experience, and entrepreneurship across different sectors, from retail and beauty services to hospitality and trades.
These awards not only recognise past achievements but also encourage continuous growth, innovation, and community involvement, reinforcing Havering’s position as a thriving hub for small business excellence.
