‘A recognition of our passion and creativity’: What it means to win a Supplier Award

Winning a Supplier Award isn’t just about collecting silverware – it’s about recognition, credibility and momentum. From boosting team morale to strengthening customer trust, the impact of winning can ripple through every part of a business long after the celebrations have ended.

 

We spoke to some of last year’s winners to hear what taking home a 2025 Supplier Award meant to them, how it’s shaped their work since, and their top tips for those hoping to make this year’s shortlist.

 

Sustainability Initiative of the Year – F&B: Marlish

Joe Evans is co-founder of Marlish, which won for its renewable energy initiatives in producing its soft drinks and sparkling waters

How has receiving a Supplier Award influenced your work?

It was a proud moment for everyone at Marlish, but beyond the accolade itself, it’s helped us communicate our credentials to customers with even greater confidence, showing that our commitment is independently recognised. It’s also strengthened morale internally – giving our team a real sense of pride and inspiring us to keep pushing for what’s next.

 

What top tips would you give to businesses who are entering this year’s Supplier Awards to make their entry stand out?

Be specific and evidence-based. Use facts and figures to show measurable progress. Judges respond to real results, not broad claims.

 

Secondly, show how sustainability is part of your DNA. The strongest entries demonstrate that responsible practice runs through the business – from sourcing and production to people and partnerships – not as an add-on or short-term project.

 

And lastly, tell your story with purpose. Explain the “why” behind your actions and the positive impact you have created for your customers, your team and the wider industry.

 

Food Brand of the Year: Maldon Salt

Susanne Fraser is head of marketing at Maldon Salt, which won for its new product development

What has the award meant for your team and the wider business?

When we won Food Brand of the Year, it helped to build further credibility and trust with our customers and partners alike. Sharing the award with the wider team really boosted morale and motivated us to drive the brand forward even further.

 

Specialist Wholesale of the Year, Freemans Event Partners

Tim Hobbs is foodservice director at Freemans Event Partners, which won for its growth in catering for large events such as the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and the Paris 2024 Golf Olympics

Why did you enter the Supplier Awards?

We chose to enter these awards to shine a light on our unique role as an event specialist wholesaler. It was our opportunity to showcase the scale, flexibility and dedication that set us apart in supporting operators across the live events industry.

 

How did winning make a difference to the business?

Winning was a proud moment for our entire team, who work tirelessly to deliver food and drink to some of the world’s biggest events. The recognition not only celebrates their hard work but also raises our profile as the wholesaler of choice for the events industry, from major venues and international events to mobile caterers on the ground. It affirms our position as the trusted supply chain partner that keeps the live experience running.

 

Innovative Guest Experience of the Year: Lolly

Peter Moore is chief executive officer of Lolly, which won for its user-focused technology offering

What did it mean to win?

It means so much to all of us at Lolly. It’s recognition of the passion, creativity and hard work that goes into building smart, guest-focused solutions, and it motivates us to keep raising the bar.

 

People Solution of the Year, A2H Solutions

Darryl Bate is director and founder of A2H Solutions, which won for its recruitment software

What three top tips would you give to businesses who are entering this year’s Supplier Awards to make their entry stand out?

First, focus on measurable results – judges love clear data that proves your impact. Second, tell the story behind those results; show how your team’s expertise and creativity turned challenges into change. And finally, keep it real. Authenticity and a genuine understanding of your sector always shine through.

 

How did winning the award impact your team?

It’s given our team a huge sense of pride and confidence in the difference we’re making across the industry. More than anything, it’s a reminder that people-first innovation really does drive progress.

 

Enter your product or person for the 2026 Supplier Awards today

 

The 2026 Supplier Awards are open for nominations. Enter today for your chance to shine and reaffirm your position as a leading player in the hospitality supply chain. 

 

Entries close at 3pm on 5 December 2025 and the winners will be announced at a ceremony at One Moorgate Place, London, on Thursday 16 April 2026.

 

Enter your product, company or star employee today