In an exciting development for the UK’s business community, NatWest Group and Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of Social Bite, have announced the launch of The British Business Awards, a prestigious new awards scheme designed to honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of businesses and leaders across the United Kingdom.
The 1st British Business Awards 2025
The inaugural British Business Awards will take place on April 24th, 2025, at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). This landmark event aims to bring together the best of British business in a grand celebration while raising vital funds for the beneficiary charity, Social Bite. Set to be the largest business dinner in the UK, the awards are expected to host 2,000 business leaders, representing organizations with a combined turnover exceeding £200 billion.
Read More: What’s the Point of Awards?
A Star-Studded Evening in Edinburgh
Chaired by Alan Jope CBE, former CEO of Unilever, the event promises to be a memorable night of networking, celebration, and entertainment. Guests can look forward to:
- A fireside chat with the iconic musician and activist Sting, who will also perform an unplugged music set.
- Hosting duties carried out by comedian and TV personality Rob Brydon.
- A keynote address by patron Sir Bob Geldof, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Band-Aid.
Award Categories and Entry Details
The awards will feature 18 categories recognizing excellence across various sectors, including:
- Entrepreneur of the Year
- Socially Responsible Business of the Year
- International Business of the Year
- Employer of the Year
- Retail Business of the Year
Businesses aiming for recognition are invited to submit a 1,000-word written application by March 7th, 2025. Further details and application guidelines can be found at www.britishbusinessawards.co.uk.
Read More: How to Celebrate Success at Work
Judging Panel
The winners will be selected by a distinguished panel of 18 industry leaders, including:
- Phil Urban, CEO of Mitchells & Butlers
- Emma Crystal, CEO of Coutts Bank
- Sharan Pasricha, founder of Ennismore (Gleneagles Hotel’s parent company)
- Shaf Rasul, serial entrepreneur and investor
- Vinodka Murria OBE, celebrated tech entrepreneur
This independent panel brings unparalleled expertise, ensuring the awards reflect the true diversity and innovation within British industry.
A Legacy of Success
Josh Littlejohn MBE, the driving force behind the event, previously founded the Scottish Business Awards, which garnered international acclaim by attracting keynote speakers such as President Bill Clinton, Sir Richard Branson, George Clooney, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Speaking about the launch, Josh Littlejohn MBE said:
“The British Business Awards will recognize the very best of entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth, while also supporting Social Bite’s vital mission to tackle homelessness across the UK.”
Why It Matters
For Sir Bob Geldof, the awards represent more than just recognition:
“For one night, the leaders of British business will come together to celebrate success and make a difference. I look forward to seeing you on the night.”
Alan Jope CBE, Chair of the judging panel, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dual purpose of the event:
“As well as enjoying the proud distinction of being nominated or winning, businesses will be helping to raise vital funds for the most vulnerable people in society.”
NatWest’s James Holian, Head of Business Banking and International Retail, added:
“NatWest is proud to support the British Business Awards. This event is the perfect way to bring together the UK’s leading companies and entrepreneurs to recognize their achievements and make a difference.”
Get Involved
Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about celebrating British business excellence, the British Business Awards promise to be an event not to be missed.
To learn more about the event, submit your application, or secure tickets, visit www.britishbusinessawards.co.uk.
