Key Points
- The 2025 Havering Small Business Awards celebrated excellence across multiple categories on 24 September at Lumiere Romford.
- Nick’s Locks won the prestigious Small Business of the Year award and Best Tradesperson, receiving a £25,000 advertising package from JC Decaux UK.
- InkTree Education won Best Newcomer, May Residential Homes Ltd was named Best Small or Independent Business.
- Utopia Beauty & Advanced Skincare took the Best Beauty or Service Business award.
- The Fat Pizza, Elm Park, won Best Takeaway while The Hop Inn secured Best Hospitality Business.
- Serene Mind Ltd won Best Customer Experience; The Picture Frame Gallery won Best Shopfront.
- Thames Chase Community Forest awarded Best Social Enterprise or CIC; Quantum Group won Best Sustainable Business.
- The awards ceremony was hosted by Mark Dover of Nation Radio London, with representatives from category sponsors presenting trophies.
- Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, praised the awards for showcasing innovation, resilience, and community spirit.
What Was the Significance of the Havering Small Business Awards 2025?
As reported by Havering Council’s official news release, the Small Business Awards held on 24 September 2025 at Lumiere Romford celebrated the borough’s strongest and most innovative small businesses. The event highlighted the resilience and diversity of local enterprises that contribute significantly to the community and economy. The awards mark a key moment in recognising the vital role of small businesses in sustaining local jobs and innovation.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, 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.”
Who Won the Small Business of the Year Award?
Nick’s Locks took the top prize after also winning Best Tradesperson. As announced by Joe Arthur from main sponsor Wates Residential, Nick’s Locks demonstrated exceptional service and community impact, earning the highest accolade. In addition to the trophy and certificate, Nick’s Locks received a £25,000 advertising package from JC Decaux UK, which will boost their business visibility significantly.
Nick, co-owner of Nick’s Locks, shared with Havering Council’s news team:
“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.”
Who Was Awarded Best Newcomer?
Supported by Havering Chamber of Commerce and Industry, InkTree Education won Best Newcomer. This category celebrates new businesses established since April 2024, recognising their successful start and promising future. Havering has long been regarded as a supportive borough for startups, earning the nickname “start-up capital of London.”
Which Business Was Named Best Small or Independent?
May Residential Homes Ltd, sponsored by Lumiere Romford, won Best Small or Independent Business. This category celebrates family-owned or independently owned small businesses that show diverse strengths across sectors including care, retail, and professional services.
Who Won Best Beauty or Service Business?
Utopia Beauty & Advanced Skincare received the Best Beauty or Service Business award, as reported by Stefania Rossi, founder, in an exclusive to The Havering Daily:
“Wow! What an incredible honour to be recognised in Havering, and to represent the beauty sector that I am so passionate about. This award belongs to our wonderful clients, the community, and my incredible team who give their passion, care and love every single day… Thank you to everyone who believed in us and voted for us.”
Utopia has been part of Havering for 13 years, known for combining beauty with community wellbeing.
What Other Categories Were Highlighted?
- Best Takeaway: The Fat Pizza, Elm Park won this category, recognised for quality and customer satisfaction.
- Best Hospitality Business: The Hop Inn, lauded for hospitality excellence.
- Best Customer Experience: Serene Mind Ltd, emphasising outstanding client service.
- Best Shopfront: The Picture Frame Gallery, praised for appealing visual presentation.
- Best Social Enterprise or CIC: Thames Chase Community Forest, acknowledged for community work and environmental focus.
- Best Sustainable Business: Quantum Group, recognised for leading sustainable business practices.
How Was the Event Structured and Sponsored?
The awards ceremony was a formal event including a drinks reception sponsored by Elm Site Services, followed by the presentation of awards by category sponsors. It was hosted by Mark Dover from Nation Radio London, the media sponsor, and took place at Lumiere Romford in Mercury Mall.
As reported in the official Havering announcement, sponsors from various sectors participated actively, showing strong community-business ties. Wates Residential was the main sponsor, and JC Decaux provided the valuable advertising prize.
What Does This Mean for Havering’s Business Community?
The Havering Small Business Awards aim to inspire ongoing business excellence and help small enterprises gain recognition that can translate into growth and success. As noted by Councillor Ray Morgon, these awards represent the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit within Havering, encouraging innovation and resilience in a competitive market environment.
