The much sought-after Start-Up Business of the Year title went to Ubloquity, whose unique blockchain technology has seen it rapidly establish itself in both the agri-food and logistics sectors as the leading guarantor of product provenance, from starting point on the farm, through processing, transport, and retail sale. The company, which has grown quickly through continuous evolution in the short time since its inception, has demonstrated how it can revolutionise the secure movement of goods within and between countries, giving assurance to producers and processors.
The hotly contested category of Family Business of the Year title went to Manfreight Limited, one of the fastest growing and most progressive logistics companies serving the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe. Manfreight are continually investing in innovation to deliver excellence in all aspects of their business, and this commitment is evident throughout their activities and the service they give to their customers.
Jenna Hill took home the highly coveted Young Entrepreneur of the Year accolade, for her role as Managing Director at Chill Gas Ltd. She has helped the family-owned and run plumbing and heating company remain agile and move with the times by setting up an online booking and text system for customers. For Jenna, confidence is key when working in a traditionally male dominated industry.
Christopher Hackett collected the Business & Product Innovation Award for SENSTEC Anti-Slip Shower Trays. Their ground-breaking patented design helps overcome the safety issue of slips and falls in the shower, while also being highly comfortable and easy to clean.”
Amongst the various other categories, White Ink Architects were particularly notable for their entry in the Wellbeing Award, whilst the hugely topical Award for Environmental/Sustainability went to Fish City.
Tina McKenzie, FSB Chair of Policy & Advocacy who delivered an address at the awards said:
“It has been an honour to celebrate the achievements of all our business owners at today’s ceremony and, from within them, to have the privilege of identifying and championing our Award category winners. They really do showcase the strength, diversity and resilience of self-employed people and SME owners throughout Northern Ireland. After the multiple challenges of the last couple of years, it is more important than ever that we champion those SME owners who have gone above and beyond.”
Brendan Kearney, FSB NI Regional chair continued:
“The calibre of entrants this year was just outstanding. The judges had an incredibly difficult job trying to select just one winner in each category. We look forward to seeing if some our Northern Ireland winners will go even further by vying for the overall UK titles later in the year. I am also delighted and grateful that our celebration has been so generously supported by a number of key sponsors including local businesses Staffline Ireland, Kith & Kin Financial, Pinnacle Growth Group, Tilney Financial Planning and Ulster University Business School.”
The category winners will be heading to the UK final which will take place in Glasgow on May 19th.
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