Small Business of the Year 2026
Category criteria
-
This category is open to businesses with a turnover not exceeding £5 million during the latest full trading year.
-
Entrants must be able to demonstrate success and progression – this could be via a growth in profits, through research, new methods of working or bringing products or services to the market.
-
The judges will welcome entries from businesses committed to corporate social responsibility.
Stafford Engineering Services Limited
Small Business of the Year entrant
Stafford Engineering Services Ltd’s turnover has increased by nearly 160% over the last three years and its profits have increased by 581% during the same period.
Turnover for the coming year is expected to increase by a further 44% to £2.6 million.
Projects have included a £1.4 million agreement to supply more than 2,500 units to Queensland Ambulance Service in Australia.
Led by a brother and sister with a team of just 11 staff, the business has transformed from a small Midlands machine shop into an internationally recognised engineering innovator supplying ambulance services and medical manufacturers across Europe and Australia.
The company specialises in precision machining, fabrication and the innovative design and manufacture of medical device mounting systems for the emergency medical services sector.
Founded in 1994, the company initially focused on subcontract machining and fabrication work for regional manufacturers. A pivotal opportunity in 2004 led the business to diversify into specialist medical engineering solutions after West Midlands Ambulance Service identified a need for safer equipment handling within frontline emergency vehicles.
Responding directly to operational challenges faced by ambulance crews, Stafford Engineering Services designed and manufactured an innovative sliding tray system for defibrillators aimed at reducing manual handling injuries and improving accessibility in emergency situations. The success of this solution quickly attracted industry attention and resulted in collaboration with Zoll Medical UK to develop a completely new generation of medical device mounting brackets.
Working closely with frontline ambulance personnel and medical device manufacturers, the company combined practical engineering expertise with in-house design and manufacturing capability to create highly durable, user-focused mounting systems tailored specifically for the demanding emergency medical environment.
A key innovation was the development of an advanced mounting bracket capable of securely charging medical devices whilst in transit — solving a significant operational challenge for ambulance fleets and meeting critical European market requirements.
Successfully launched in 2018, this next-generation system significantly improved reliability, usability, and efficiency for emergency service providers and helped position the company as a market leader within the sector.
The company’s products are now installed across ambulance fleets including West Midlands Ambulance Service, South Central Ambulance Service, Welsh Ambulance Service and international emergency service operators.
Continuous innovation and product refinement have enabled Stafford Engineering Services to become a preferred supplier for Zoll Medical Europe, driving substantial export growth and expanding the company’s presence across global markets.
Innovation remains central to the company’s growth strategy. Profits have been continually reinvested into research and development, advanced manufacturing equipment and expanded production capability to support increasing global demand.
This commitment to innovation has enabled the business to compete successfully against much larger international manufacturers while remaining independently owned and UK-based.
Alongside product innovation, the company is also investing in the future of UK engineering by working with local colleges to develop apprenticeship opportunities and practical workplace training for young engineers. This commitment supports regional skills development while helping address engineering shortages within UK manufacturing.
Despite its growth and international reach, Stafford Engineering Services continues to maintain the values of a family-run business — prioritising quality, continuous improvement, customer collaboration, and long-term investment in both people and technology.
The Inspirational Learning Group
Small Business of the Year entrant
Founded by University of Staffordshire alumni, The Inspirational Learning Group has become one of the UK’s leading careers, enterprise and employability education providers.
From its base in Stafford it works with schools, colleges, employers and international partners to create meaningful opportunities for young people.
With projected turnover now exceeding £1.5 million and strong recurring revenues across education and corporate partnerships, the business has continued to grow despite challenging economic conditions and increasing pressure across the education sector.
Stoke-on-Trent born cousins Ben and Michael Dyer founded the business in 2013 while they were both still studying at University of Staffordshire.
From humble beginnings, working from a rented office on the University of Staffordshire campus, TILG has become a market-leader in the careers education sector, with its flagship The National Careers Challenge now the largest school enterprise competition in the UK.
The team supports thousands of students, teachers and employers each year through initiatives such as The National Careers Challenge, which has now reached more than 750,000 young people across the UK and internationally.
Ben said: “The team’s ability to deliver at this scale while maintaining quality, energy and strong customer relationships is what makes them exceptional. They work across live events, national finals, in-school delivery, digital platform management and employer partnerships, often balancing multiple major projects at once. Their commitment to customer service, innovation and educational impact consistently goes beyond expectation.
“Entrepreneurship sits at the centre of TILG’s story. Founded with a vision to transform careers education and bridge the gap between education and employment, the business has grown from a start-up into a nationally recognised organisation working with some of the biggest employers in the UK, including NatWest, British Airways, Air Products, Wickes, GE Vernova and AtkinsRéalis.
“This entrepreneurial journey has required resilience, risk-taking and constant innovation. From building The National Careers Challenge into the UK’s largest enterprise competition, to launching the Lightbulb platform and leading new work around Equalex and Modern Work Experience, TILG has consistently stayed ahead of policy change and market demand rather than reacting to it.
“The business is now helping shape how schools and employers approach the Government’s 10-day work experience guarantee, positioning itself as a true market leader in this space.”
He added: “Most importantly, TILG creates genuine change. It helps young people build confidence, develop employability skills and connect with real employers and real opportunities. It supports schools in delivering meaningful careers education at scale and helps employers engage with future talent in a way that creates measurable social value.
“What makes TILG stand out is the combination of exceptional teamwork, entrepreneurial leadership, commercial resilience and long-term purpose. It is not simply a successful business it is a business making a meaningful difference.”
The Inspirational Learning Group has entered the Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards. Ben and Michael Dyer have entered the Entrepreneur of the Year, Alumni Business Person of the Year and Young Business Person of the Year categories.
The Pottery Cave
Small Business of the Year entrant
What started as a hobby has become a successful, scalable business for University of Staffordshire alumna Caroline Farnell-Smith.
The Pottery Cave began as a few workshops in a village hall. In April 2025 it was formally established as a limited company and it now has premises, a team of 12 staff and an ambitious but sustainable growth plan.
Financially, the business has achieved a 100%+ increase in turnover over the past 12 months, highlighting both commercial success and the scalability of its offering. Growth has been driven by diversified services, high customer demand and strong repeat business. Customer engagement has been equally impressive.
In the last year alone The Pottery Cave, based at Curborough Craft Centre in Lichfield, has delivered ceramics sessions to more than 10,000 customers, establishing itself as a leading creative experience provider in the region.
The Pottery Cave is a creative pottery studio and community hub offering pottery classes, workshops and bespoke ceramic products. Originally established as a grassroots community initiative operating from village halls, the studio was created to make ceramics accessible, social and enjoyable for everyone.
The business has seen rapid growth in bookings, repeat customers and external events. Its appeal extends beyond the local area, attracting international visitors from countries including China, New Zealand, Spain, the Netherlands and India. A commemorative ceramic plate created at the studio was taken to the United States for Thanksgiving celebrations.
The Pottery Cave offers a diverse and expanding range of ceramics experiences, including handbuilding lessons, wheel-throwing sessions, weekly wellbeing workshops and private parties. These are delivered across two dedicated studio spaces—one focused on clay experiences and the other specialising in paint-a-pot sessions.
Demand for classes and workshops has exceeded initial expectations, leading to the introduction of additional sessions, extended opening hours and availability across evenings and weekends. The business has also introduced structured beginner-to-advanced courses, corporate team-building workshops and bespoke commissions for both individuals and organisations
The long-term vision is for The Pottery Cave to become a recognised regional centre for ceramics, creativity and wellbeing—contributing meaningfully to the local creative economy while enhancing community connection and mental wellbeing.
The Pottery Cave has entered the Start-up Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
JLC Interiors Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
In an industry often driven by standardisation, JLC Interiors aims to stand apart by embracing creativity and individuality. Every design is approached with fresh thinking, ensuring no two projects are the same.
The Hednesford-based business’s service is so bespoke its range is virtually limitless and it can work with rooms of any shape and size.
It designs, manufactures and fits bespoke fitted furniture for every room in the home including lounge units, media wall units, wardrobes, kitchens, home offices, understairs units and entertainment spaces.
Founded by husband and wife team Libby and John Chapman in January 2018, the business is still family owned and run but now has a team of staff working across manufacturing and the office.
John Chapman has been working in the furniture industry since his teens so it was a natural progression to start his own business.
Libby Chapman said: “The ability to translate a clients vision into a functional, beautiful and personalised space is one of our defining strengths. Whether working on residential or commercial interiors, we combine technical expertise with an understanding of aesthetics to create results that are both practical and inspiring.
“What further distinguishes us is our unique approach to design and delivery. We do not follow trends, we set them, by combining innovative ideas with high quality materials and skilled craftsmanship.
“We consistently produce interiors that are distinctive and enduring. Attention to detail is evident at every stage, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition within the industry.
JLC Interiors Limited has entered the Small Business of the Year category of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Christopher Leslie Bespoke
Small Business of the Year entrant
A bespoke furniture company’s social media accounts went viral after it exhibited at Grand Designs Live London.
Christopher Leslie Bespoke, run by Hayley Gee and Chris Ansell from Newcastle-under-Lyme, had millions of interactions from around the UK and further afield.
An Instagram post about one of its bespoke creations was viewed 1.5 million times with another viewed 1.2 million times.
The business, which initially worked in North Staffordshire, now has enquires nationally and internationally, is booked for work months in advance and is being called on for full-room or multi-room transformations.
Hayley said: “We have always been a busy business, often booking projects months in advance, but over the past year something has shifted quite significantly. What was once mainly local work has grown into consistent enquiries from across the UK and now internationally, with clients discovering us purely through our online presence.
“A major turning point for us was exhibiting at Grand Designs Live London. It pushed us beyond our local audience and introduced our work to a completely different level of client.
“Since then, the scale and quality of enquiries has noticeably changed, with more clients approaching us for full-room and multi-room projects rather than single pieces.
“Our growth has also been driven heavily by social media, which has become one of the biggest drivers of our enquiries. We’ve built a strong following by showing not just finished projects, but the process, the detail and the level of craftsmanship involved.
“One of our media wall designs in particular has gained significant traction and has become something we are recognised for, bringing in a consistent stream of enquiries and helping establish a clear identity for the brand.
“What makes this growth even more significant is that we are based in an area where high-end bespoke furniture isn’t always the norm. Rather than competing on price, we made a conscious decision to position ourselves within the premium market, focusing on quality, detail and the overall client experience.
“That decision has allowed us to attract clients who value design and craftsmanship, and who see what we create as a long-term investment.”
An interior designer and a cabinet maker/project manager, partners Hayley Gee and Chris Ansell used their 28 years of combined industry knowledge to set up Christopher Leslie Bespoke.
Set up as a limited company in August 2022, Chris had previously worked as a sole trader.
Christopher Leslie Bespoke has entered the Small Business of the Year and Growth Award categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
BusinessLodge
Small Business of the Year entrant
BusinessLodge is a long-established, independently owned flexible workspace provider celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and the opening of its second, £1.5 million Stoke-on-Trent site.
Supporting companies at every stage of growth, from start-ups and sole traders to national and international businesses, it delivers high-quality serviced offices, coworking spaces and business support services across Stoke-on-Trent and the North West.
This year,BusinessLodge made a huge investment in its new flagship site, Heron House, transforming a former NHS and Midlands Electricity Board building into a modern 20,000 sq ft serviced office centre in Heron Cross.
Operating from two Stoke-on-Trent sites, Trent House in Fenton which opened in 2019 and now Heron House, BusinessLodge provides ready-to-use offices, coworking spaces, hot-desking, meeting rooms, and virtual office solutions.
Clients benefit from high-speed internet, advanced telephony, professional reception services, secure access and 24/7 entry. Additional amenities include breakout areas, on-site gyms, secure parking with EV charging and dog-friendly offices, enabling businesses to focus entirely on their growth.
Phase one of Heron House has already welcomed 10 businesses across 21 offices. Future phases will introduce additional offices, coworking spaces and meeting rooms with ClickShare technology. Once complete Heron House will support around 50 businesses and provide approximately 300 workstations, further strengthening the organisation’s offering.
Across all sites (including two expanding sites in the North West), BusinessLodge directly supports 35 jobs and maintains high occupancy levels, reflecting sustained demand for contemporary, flexible workspaces.
Innovation underpins the BusinessLodge approach. Investment in IT infrastructure ensures clients benefit from secure, resilient networks, dedicated connections, backup systems and seamless communication across multiple platforms. Office layouts are designed for flexibility, allowing businesses to scale as they grow, with spaces reconfigured or expanded to meet evolving needs.
BusinessLodge prides itself on creating a business community, not just a place to work, where clients share expertise, services and business opportunities to work together, which many of its clients already do. Networking events, wellness activities, seasonal celebrations and pop-up visits from local sellers create a vibrant feel, giving businesses the chance to showcase their products, helping boost the local economy.
BusinessLodge has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The QUARTER at Potbank
Small Business of the Year entrant
A food and events business based on a site that’s about to have a multi-million-pound regeneration is successfully combining heritage, innovation and community impact.
The Quarter at Potbank, based on the Spode site in Stoke, will celebrate its sixth anniversary in September.
Owners Annmarie and Josef Bailey are constantly innovating and looking to expand their offer, including a current increased focus on weddings and staging larger events.
Since its inception the business has transformed the local high street by blending heritage preservation with contemporary hospitality, fostering community engagement and stimulating economic growth.
The venue’s distinctive character attracts both locals and tourists, contributing to the area’s cultural renaissance.
By day The QUARTER serves homemade meals in a family-friendly café setting. By night it transforms into a vibrant restaurant. This dual identity not only broadens its appeal but also encourages repeat visits, enhancing foot traffic on the high street.
The Factory Floor, its dedicated live entertainment space, hosts events including live music, comedy nights and tarot readings. These events provide a platform for local artists and performers, foster a vibrant arts scene and draw diverse audiences to the area.
The QUARTER offers venue hire for weddings, christenings, baby showers and other community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a communal gathering place.
Annmarie Bailey said: “There are lots of things happening at Spode right now, lots of investment, so it’s a very good place for us to be based right now.
“The developers Capital and Centric are going to be taking over a lot of the site and redeveloping much of the space which is all very exciting.”
The QUARTER at Potbank has entered the High Street Impact, Business in the Community and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Lowe's on Carter Street
Small Business of the Year entrant
Opened by Head Chef George Lowe in April 2023, Lowe’s on Carter Street has become one of Uttoxeter’s most significant high street success stories.
George, whose career spans Michelin-starred kitchens, luxury hotels and international private chef work, wanted to bring a new dining experience to Uttoxeter.
Lowe’s is a casual fine dining restaurant and wine bar that prides itself on an ever-evolving menu using the very best Staffordshire produce and working with suppliers including Dunwood Butchers and Staffordshire Coffee.
It has created jobs, attracted thousands of visitors, gained 400 five-star reviews and given back to the town that George grew up in.
George and the team believe a great restaurant should be about more than just excellent food. They want it to set a standard in the town and to give guests an experience they never forget. In the three years they’ve been operating they’ve built a restaurant that is attracting visitors from across Staffordshire and is rooted in the community.
Thanks to the quality of their food, hard work of their team, personal touch and approach to customer service repeat business stands at 34.73% above the industry average. One customer, a widower, visits Lowe’s every Sunday without fail. She has a children’s meal and talks to the team - the restaurant is her social lifeline.
Employing a team of eight local staff, Lowe’s is a proud living wage employer and operates a four-day working week.
The restaurant’s popularity led George to launch ambitious expansion plans last year, snapping up the empty unit next door, and helping revitalise one of Uttoxeter’s main streets in the process. A £15,000 investment created a new bar area and increased their covers by 12, a rise of 25% and increasing their floorspace by a third.
Over the past three years, the restaurant has delivered at least 600 three-course Christmas dinners completely free of charge, no questions asked, to residents across Uttoxeter. Meals are delivered on Christmas Eve, ensuring people who may be isolated, elderly or financially struggling can enjoy a festive meal without the worry.
As a passionate supporter and positive voice for the hospitality sector George is also heavily involved in Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s new hospitality forum, where he wants to rally support for the industry.
Looking ahead, George aims to replicate this model elsewhere in Staffordshire by opening a second restaurant - extending the positive high street impact they have already delivered in Uttoxeter.
Lowe’s on Carter Street has entered the High Street Impact, Business in the Community and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Astro Education
Small Business of the Year entrant
Less than two years after it was set up as a one-man business Astro Education has expanded across two counties with a team of four staff and has ambitious plans to grow further.
The Stoke-on-Trent based business specialises in recruitment and retention for the education sector including connecting schools with high-quality teaching and support staff.
It works with primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and specialist SEN provisions across Staffordshire and Cheshire.
It provides both day-to-day supply staff and long-term placements covering a wide range of roles including qualified teachers, teaching assistants, SEN specialists, pastoral staff, cover supervisors and administrative professionals.
Founder Tim Howarth, who worked in the insurance industry before moving into recruitment, has added a former headteacher and teaching assistant into his team. They currently have a workforce of around 100 educational professionals.
Tim said: “From the outset, our mission has been to build a recruitment business that prioritises relationships, reliability and fairness. Schools rely heavily on agency support to maintain continuity for their pupils yet many report challenges around cost, inconsistent candidate quality and poor service from traditional recruitment providers.
“Astro Education was established specifically to address these issues. Our approach focuses on transparent pricing, high compliance standards and careful candidate matching to ensure that both schools and staff benefit from a supportive and professional recruitment experience.
“Although we are still a young business, our growth since launching has been significant. Within less than two years we have developed a strong and expanding client base across Staffordshire and have begun extending our reach into Cheshire.”
Wherever possible Tim tries to put back into the communities his business serves including sponsoring football kits for Excel Academy and sponsoring an early years practitioners event.
“I want people to want to work with us,” he said. "I’m creating a brand that is a transparent, responsive and ethical alternative that genuinely supports the education community.”
Astro Education has entered the Small Business of the Year, Start-up Business of the Year and Growth categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and Tim Howarth has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category.
JMT
Small Business of the Year
Fenton-based JMT set out to become more than an accountancy and business advisory firm by embedding itself into the heart of the community it serves.
Founded 15 years ago by Tomasz Putynkowski it has supported more than 170 small and medium-sized enterprises across Staffordshire.
This has often involved helping start-ups and small businesses in their journey to become established and then scale.
The business has a long-term commitment to sustained charitable involvement, educational engagement, inclusive leadership and measurable social contribution because of Tomasz’s belief that commercial success and community impact can and should go hand in hand.
He said: “What distinguishes JMT is its deliberate commitment to strengthening the wider community alongside growing its client base. Community engagement is not an occasional initiative for JMT, it is embedded in its everyday operations and leadership philosophy.”
Over the past three years the business has helped raise and donate more than £7,000 to local charities and community initiatives. JMT has organised and supported numerous fundraising events, contributed sponsorship to local causes and actively promoted charitable campaigns within the business network.
Rather than viewing charity as an obligation JMT integrates it into its culture — encouraging clients, partners and associates to participate and contribute.
Innovation has been central to JMT’s success. The business has embraced digital transformation, implementing cloud-based accounting systems and automation tools that streamline processes for clients and improve efficiency.
By moving clients onto modern accounting platforms and providing training and guidance, JMT has reduced administrative burdens, improved reporting accuracy and enabled real-time decision-making.
Tomasz added: “JMT’s performance is especially notable given the wider economic landscape in which it operates. Small businesses have faced unprecedented pressures in recent years from regulatory changes and tax reforms to economic uncertainty and rising operational costs.
“JMT has not only navigated these challenges successfully but has used them as opportunities to strengthen its client relationships. Through workshops, one-to-one advisory sessions and ongoing strategic support, the firm has helped businesses overcome obstacles, stabilise finances and plan for future growth.”
JMT has entered the Small Business of the Year and Business in the Community categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Tiny Toes Scan Studio
Small Business of the Year entrant
NHS sonographer Jenny Holt set up a private ultrasound clinic in March 2025 and has already moved to new premises to allow the business to grow.
The mum of three, who runs Tiny Toes Scan Studio alongside working part time at UHNM, says turnover at the Milton-based studio is on track to increase further over the coming year.
She launched the business after spotting an ultrasound machine for sale online at an irresistible price and then storing it in her kitchen at home until she had found the right premises and got CQC permission to open.
Jenny said: “I took the plunge and set up my own business to provide exceptional care for patients - allowing them to share their pregnancy journey with loved ones with the hope to reduce the stigma attached to private ultrasound clinics.
“I started the business with nothing. I saw an ultrasound machine for sale on Facebook marketplace and decided it was now or never. We travelled to Liverpool to collect the machine and the next day we were driving past a shop in Milton available to let.
“After nearly 12 months of a rigorous CQC application- we got the go ahead to open in March 2025. Since then we have invested in a new ultrasound machine and moved to a larger shop enabling us to hire reception staff.
“So far we have scanned 1056 patients and continue to grow each month. We started with one member of staff. Now we have four. We are delivering high quality services to our local area, a service which is well trusted and highly reputable.”
Jenny and her team share moments of joy with many of their patients but they are also trained to work with people who have pregnancy complications and can provide treasured keepsakes such as heartbeat bears, videos and photos. They have also identified five ectopic pregnancies.
Tiny Toes Scan Studio has entered the Start-up Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards
V.S.S. Maintenance Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
A Staffordshire building and maintenance company is on track to more than double its turnover year on year.
V.S.S. Maintenance Ltd, based at Woodseaves near Eccleshall, was set up in 2022 by husband and wife team Maria and Adam Swierk.
Along with their team of one permanent member of staff and four contractors they work on the likes of extensions, garage conversions and full-house renovations as well as routine maintenance.
Clients across Staffordshire include private individuals as well as organisations with property portfolios.
Contracts director Maria has more than 16 years’ experience of working as a HR business partner for a large retail company, giving her an ideal background to tackle office-based work for the company as well as health and safety site visits.
Adam has more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry and has a level seven diploma in construction and senior management.
Maria said: “V.S.S. Maintenance Ltd stands out through its unwavering commitment to quality, reliability and professionalism in every aspect of its work. We are not just a construction company, we are a trusted partner to our clients.
“Our reputation has been built on consistently delivering high standards, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. We approach every project, whether large or small, with the same level of care, precision and accountability.
“Attention to detail is at the core of what we do, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently and to an exceptional standard.
“Health and safety is central to our operations. We maintain strict compliance with regulations and proactively promote safe working practices across all sites. This gives our customers confidence and peace of mind, knowing they are working with a responsible and professional contractor.
“What truly differentiates V.S.S. Maintenance Ltd is our personal approach. We pride ourselves on strong communication, transparency,and responsiveness. Our customers value that we are approachable, solution-focused and always willing to go the extra mile.
“We understand that no two clients are the same, which is why we tailor our services to meet individual needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
“As a growing business we have demonstrated resilience, adaptability and a strong work ethic. We continuously look for ways to improve our processes, invest in best practices and strengthen relationships within our industry.
“Above all, our success is measured by customer satisfaction, repeat business and positive referrals. The trust our clients place in us reflects our dedication to excellence and our commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality service.”
V.S.S. Maintenance Ltd has entered the Growth Award and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Chillington Playbarn Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
A farm diversification business was launched less than two years ago but is already award-winning and employing 26 members of staff.
Chillington Playbarn Ltd, operating as Hockerhill Playbarn in Brewood, opened for business in March 2024 and has just won a national award for Best Food and Beverage at the NFAN Awards 2026.
It was launched by farmers Tessa and Charlie Giffard, of the Chillington Hall Estate, who quickly brought on board a head chef and a general manager, Sophie Galantini, who is University of Staffordshire alumna.
The all-weather indoor and outdoor attraction has a large, themed play area with a central great oak structure, a café, pedal go-karts, ziplines and a sensory den.
The business set out to include the surrounding villages as much as possible, with a loyalty scheme for local residents.
Local villagers have got behind the project and research has shown that 46% of visitors are returning customers, highlighting the positive impact it is having on the local community.
The team pride themselves in supporting local events, schools and charities by offering vouchers and family visits. Hockerhill ensures that all children regardless of their background or ability can have access to a fun and safe environment. Monthly SEN sessions have proved popular and they have made the space as wheelchair friendly as possible.
Chillington Playbarn Ltd has been nominated in the Start-up Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards by General Manager Sophie Galantini.
She said: “Hockerhill is committed to excellence in everything they do. From the design of their facilities to customer service, they put their heart and soul into ensuring a top-quality experience for every visitor. These values reflect Hockerhill’s desire to create a positive and lasting impact on families, communities and the development of children.
“Through their commitment to the local community, they listen to customer feedback and strive to increase customer demands and expectations. With the increase in revenue, they hope to expand the site to be able to offer more in the coming months and years.
“This family run business will hopefully continue for generations to come, with the Giffards’ own children often popping in to say hello to the staff or help with washing up, hopefully instilling a good work ethic and passion for their family business.”
Ultra Clean Canines
Small Business of the Year entrant
It’s been a year of development and innovation for the owners of Weston Coyney-based Ultra Clean Canines, who are about to launch an own-brand product.
They have been working with a manufacturer and packaging experts to bring to the market a dog hygiene product which was the brainchild of company founder Emma Cartlich.
The core business is a training academy set up by Emma in 2020 to combine her teaching qualifications with her expertise with an ultrasonic toothbrush for pets.
Emma and husband Adrian both completed emmi®-pet face-to-face training, bought an emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush and started to deliver an emmi®-pet teeth cleaning, oral care and maintenance service in the Staffordshire and Cheshire area.
They then decided to create and deliver emmi®-pet seminars to teach and support pet care professionals, especially dog groomers, how to successfully implement the emmi®-pet into their business. Emma’s dream of running her own training academy was born.
Emma created a Zoom seminar for pet care professionals and offers the same course in an online pre-recorded version which is hosted on her own, one-of-a-kind learning management system.
E-learning has now overtaken Zoom seminars as people are able to complete the training at a time, location and pace that suits them. Over the past year Emma has also started to meet a demand for in-person training sessions.
All courses are officially endorsed by the manufacturer of the equipment and include certification.
Word spread and Emma was approached by a dog grooming college to deliver training to their students and course tutors. She now works with a number of colleges around the UK, has her training included in City and Guilds dog grooming courses and is currently creating a mini course for another dog grooming academy.
2025 saw Ultra Clean Canines become Supplier of the Year finalists in the Pet Industry Federation Awards, develop a partnership with Micropet Franchise Network and have editorial articles in Edition Dog and Edition Dog Professionals magazines.
They are now looking to launch a podcast with guests speakers to spread the message about canine oral health.
Ultra Clean Canines has entered the Skills for the Future and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Precious Pets Weddings
Small Business of the Year entrant
When rival businesses entered their sector the owners of Precious Pets Weddings didn’t see it as a threat, they saw it as a business opportunity.
Launched in 2018 and featured on TV’s The One Show, This Morning and Dragons’ Den, their business was among the first in the UK to offer a professional service for people who want their pet dog at their wedding.
Weston Coyney based owners Emma and Adrian Cartlich have now launched a training arm to their business to upskill the likes of dog groomers and professional dog walkers who want to expand into the wedding market.
“We were one of the first in the UK to offer this service,” said Emma. “Now we have other people turning up at weddings calling themselves dog chaperones but without the experience which could potentially damage the reputation of the dog chaperone service.”
Emma, who has a background in training, has created a CPD accredited wedding dog chaperone course which she says is designed to put the welfare of dogs first.
“People are going to be setting themselves up in business anyway but if they have been properly trained and had guidance from one of the first businesses in that field in the UK then it will be better for everyone.”
Emma has already had interest in the course from Australia and the US as well as the UK.
The training is currently being delivered over Zoom but Emma plans to move it onto a learning management system so that people can access it at their own pace.
Emms and Adrian recently invested in new custom crates and have had their chaperone vehicle revamped.
They caught the eye of Theo Paphitis when they appeared on Dragons’ Den and he has invited them to attend his small business event for the fourth year in a row.
Emma and Adrian plan, co-ordinate and take away stress for the happy couple so that their dog can be a big part of their wedding day.
They enable dogs to be ring bearers, meet and greeters, the best man, a bridesmaid or simply to attend for an hour to be part of the photographs.
Emma and Adrian even have a Wedding Wheels dog van and a Mini Cooper decorated with paw print weddingsribbons and bows so that pets can arrive in style.
Every dog chaperone package is bespoke and can include full day pet care if needed.
They work at weddings around the region and are increasingly recommended by wedding venues. They recently worked at their biggest wedding to date, chaperoning six dogs.
Precious Pets Weddings has entered the Small Business of the Year and Skills for the Future categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Auto Star Garage
Small Business of the Year entrant
Qualified welder and former train builder Gregory Jamrozik has brought together a team of freelance experts to offer a full automotive service.
The team of five, who work out of Auto Star Garage in Fenton, includes a camper van expert, a bodywork expert, two mechanics and Gregory’s own welding skills.
“Everybody does something different,” said Gregory. “I’m the owner of the unit but I’m also a fully coded welder. I repair vehicles but I can also weld pretty much anything that comes my way such as fences and radiators.
“I used to build trains but wanted to have my own business. I already have plenty of customers but I’m open to other businesses bringing in large scale welding projects.”
Gregory opened Auto Star Garage in June 2022 after moving from smaller premises.
Alongside standard automotive services Auto Star Garage offers custom fabrication work, including building recovery trucks from scratch and custom alloy repairs.
The garage can take on van work of any size and can provide bespoke solutions for customers.
Auto Star Garage works alongside a local MOT Centre so that customers can have their vehicles serviced, repaired and MOT-tested through one business.
Auto Star Garage has entered the Small Business of the Year category of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Studio Effect
Small Business of the Year entrant
Hairdresser Magdalena Jermakow has clients ranging in age from one to 80-something, including some who have been with her for decades.
She opened her own salon, Studio Effect, in Queen’s Parade, Newcastle-under-Lyme, 19 years ago and still has some of the customers who had been with her previously when she worked as a mobile hairdresser.
“I have clients of all ages and types,” said Magdalena who has a team of two hairdressing staff who work alongside a two-person beauty team.
“Some of my clients are Polish, some of my clients are English, they’re all different nationalities really. Some clients have been with us from the very beginning and some were already clients when I opened. We have a good base of loyal customers. A lot of our customers have become our friends over the years.”
Studio Effect has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Jones's Cheesecakes and Bakes/Jones's Kitchen
Small Business of the Year entrant
A charity bake sale has turned into a business idea for Sarah Jones and her partner Andy.
The couple made cheesecakes to sell at a fundraiser which went down so well their friends and colleagues encouraged them to make and sell more.
The kitchen of their Abbey Hulton home is now the hub of registered business Jones’s Cheesecakes and Bakes, which they launched at the end of 2023.
They have also launched Jones’s Kitchen, a food catering service for weddings and other celebrations. They are now able to serve hot food at events and are working with a Community Interest Company in Tunstall to help provide affordable, nutritious food for its café.
They have stalls including at Castle Artisan Market, World of Wedgwood, Port Vale Football Club and as far afield as Warrington.
The couple work on the business at weekends and in the evening and hope to reach the stage where they could work on it fulltime.
Sarah said: “This started off as a hobby but has now become much more than that. Andy still works full time in a different job, but it would be nice to get this to the stage where we can both dedicate ourselves to it.
“We still make the cheesecakes wo started with and we still make everything at home from scratch.”
Jones’s Cheesecakes and Bakes/Jones’s Kitchen has entered the Small Business of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Zeal Mortgages and Protection Services
Small Business of the Year entrant
Pam Stockdale’s mortgage business has a clear philosophy - people buy from people and trust remains the most valuable currency within financial services.
She founded Uttoxeter-based Zeal Mortgages and Protection Services in 2019 after a financial services career that has included working at the likes of Britannia and Reeds Rains.
She now has clients nationally. Over the last year, Zeal Mortgages has experienced continued market growth, achieving an estimated 10% year-on-year increase in business alongside expansion of its visibility and customer reach.
Pam has embraced modern methods of communication and engagement that differentiate it from traditional mortgage advisers.
She said: “One of Zeal’s greatest strengths is its ability to humanise what can often be an intimidating and stressful process.
“Mortgages are one of the biggest financial commitments people will ever make, yet many consumers still find the industry overly corporate, transactional and difficult to understand. Zeal has intentionally challenged that perception.”
Through consistent use of video marketing, educational content and multi-platform social media engagement, Zeal has adapted its marketing strategy to reflect changing customer behaviour and expectations. Rather than relying solely on traditional advertising methods, the business has focused on visibility, authenticity and trust-building.
Zeal has intentionally positioned itself differently within what is traditionally seen as a corporate and often dry industry. Through creative and engaging content across LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, the business has made mortgage advice more accessible, relatable and less intimidating for a younger audience, particularly first-time buyers.
Alongside growth in visibility and reputation, Zeal has also continued to broaden its service offering and market reach. The business supports clients across first-time buyer mortgages, remortgages, buy-to-let, moving home and protection services, ensuring customers can access joined-up financial guidance tailored to their circumstances.
Corporate social responsibility also forms part of Zeal’s approach. The business actively supports the local community through visibility within Staffordshire networking groups, local engagement and ongoing support for customers beyond completion. Zeal understands that being a successful small business is not just about revenue growth, but also about building trust, contributing positively to the local business community and maintaining long-term relationships.
Zeal Mortgages and Protection Services has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
CabAbility
Small Business of the Year entrant
Ahbid Choudry set up a specialist taxi firm for people with disabilities to stop them suffering from the embarrassment he says he faced growing up.
The Shelton-based businessman has spinal muscular atrophy and uses a wheelchair himself.
Growing up in the 80s and 90s, Ahbid couldn’t do the things his friends and peers were doing socially because he couldn’t get a taxi to transport him in his wheelchair. There were evenings out at nightclubs like The Place and Valentinos where he simply couldn’t get home.
It was this experience and his dogged determination to make a difference to those in the same boat as himself that led to the creation of CabAbility in 2016.
Starting with just two jobs in the first year of trading the company has grown considerably. Over the past decade it has become a trusted, inclusive transport service employing around 50 staff and serving a wide range of customers who rely on accessible, reliable travel.
Ahbid, who comes from a family of taxi owners, said: “From the beginning the aim was not only to provide wheelchair-accessible taxi services, but to build a company that actively represented and empowered disabled people. That mission remains central today.
“Being a disability proud employer is not a label we use lightly; it reflects a genuine commitment to creating a workplace where disabled employees are valued, supported and given equal opportunity to progress. This includes ensuring that recruitment processes are accessible, that reasonable adjustments are readily available and that staff are supported in ways that allow them to perform at their best without unnecessary barriers.
“The culture of the company is shaped by the belief that lived experience matters. Many of our team members either have personal experience of disability or have worked closely within the accessible transport sector for years. This creates a workforce that understands the importance of dignity, patience and respect when supporting passengers.
“For many customers, especially wheelchair users and individuals with additional mobility needs, transport is not simply about getting from one place to another - it is about independence, confidence and inclusion in everyday life. Our team understands that responsibility deeply.”
All of the company’s drivers are trained in how to strap different wheelchairs in safely and correctly which is essential when some wheelchairs can be as heavy as twenty stone. Drivers also have British Sign Language, autism and seizure training.
Ahbid left school before taking any qualifications and started selling windows before working in sales for Vodafone. He credits this sales background and his own personal experience as the reasons for the company’s success.
CabAbility has entered the Small Business of the Year, Team of the Year and Business in the Community categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and Ahbid Choudry has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category.
NBe Brokers Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
NBe Brokers Ltd’s turnover has increased by 185% since its launch in 2023 and its net profit has risen by more than 2,000%.
The business was founded by co-directors Shaun Hollins and Phil Warburton who were initially the only members of the team. They now have 25 employees including a newly created business development role and have just move to larger premises at Lymedale Business Centre in Newcastle -under-Lyme.
Shaun and Phil have both previously worked at Autonet. They and their team have extensive experience of working within the insurance industry.
NBe Brokers is an insurance brokerage specialising in tailored commercial insurance solutions for businesses. It operates as an independent insurance intermediary, bridging the gap between insurance providers and business clients.
Its core focus is on simplifying the insurance process and delivering cost-effective, personalised coverage that meets the specific risk needs of its customers.
Offering a range of insurance products, including fleet insurance, HGV and taxi cover, courier insurance, motor trade solutions and other commercial insurance policies, NBe Brokers helps businesses protect their assets, operations and people.
Callum Rowley, business development manager at NBe Brokers Ltd, said: “Beyond commercial growth, NBe Brokers Ltd is committed to making a meaningful difference within the local community. As a growing business we believe success should be shared and we have actively supported local grassroots charities and community initiatives.
“We have contributed through direct financial donations, sponsorship of local events and practical support where it is needed most. By backing smaller, community-led causes we help ensure that funding reaches frontline initiatives that deliver immediate and tangible impact.
“Our support has focused on organisations working within our local area, reinforcing our commitment to the communities in which our clients and team members live and work. We have recently joined forces with Dougie Mac through their business club scheme.”
NBe Brokers Ltd has entered the Growth Award and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
SprayStyle Body Masters Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
From humble beginnings shaped by adversity and resilience, SprayStyle Body Masters Ltd has grown into one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most respected independent automotive repair specialists.
At the age of just 18, Peter Dubb founded SprayStyle with his brothers Billy and Kulbir. The Shelton-based business was built on the determination of a family forced to rebuild their lives after fleeing Uganda during Idi Amin’s regime in the 1970s. The Dubb family were among thousands forced to leave the country, abandoning a successful business, family home, cars and all the possessions they could not carry as they fled for their lives with their seven children.
Arriving in the UK via a refugee camp with little more than hope and determination, the family settled in Stoke-on-Trent and began laying the foundations for a new future.
More than four decades later, SprayStyle Body Masters Ltd stands as a testament to that perseverance, evolving from a small repair operation into a trusted name renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail and outstanding customer service.
Today, the family-run company employs a team of 12 and has earned a loyal customer base across the region by focusing on quality over quantity. Specialising in prestige vehicle repairs, SprayStyle has built its reputation not only on technical excellence but also on its personal approach to customer care.
General manager Ravi Panesar-Dubb, who now helps lead the business alongside other family members, says the company’s ethos has always centred around relationships and trust.
“We treat every customer like an individual, not just a number,” he said. “People come to us because they know we genuinely care about both them and their vehicles. Many customers become lifelong friends.”
The company’s family values remain at the heart of its success. Generations of hard work, sacrifice and dedication have helped create a workplace culture where employees, customers and suppliers are all valued as part of the wider SprayStyle family.
Despite operating in a highly competitive sector, SprayStyle continues to thrive by maintaining the highest standards and investing in long-term sustainable growth. The business now has ambitious plans to expand its regional presence, create additional employment opportunities and continue developing the next generation of skilled automotive professionals.
More than 45 years after the family first arrived in Stoke-on-Trent seeking safety and opportunity, SprayStyle Body Masters Ltd has become a powerful local success story — one built on resilience, craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
SprayStyle Body Masters Ltd has entered the Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Hobb Computer Services Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
A Staffordshire IT company which celebrates its 30th anniversary this month was originally founded by four friends – all of whom still work within the company.
Hobb Computer Services Ltd, based at Festival Park in Etruria, supports thousands of IT users every day and helps organisations across Staffordshire run securely and efficiently with minimal disruption.
The business began with a simple idea: to become a reliable IT partner that businesses could genuinely depend on for the long term. By combining their skills and experience, they identified an opportunity to offer something different. Not just IT support, but a service built on trust, consistency and strong relationships.
Hobb has grown through long-term relationships rather than short contracts. Many clients have been with the company for decades. It works closely with them day to day and acts as an extension of their teams, supporting their growth and sharing in their successes.
The team of nine, including those four original founders, are committed to CSR including long-standing relationships with organisations such as Douglas Macmillan Hospice. Through fundraising, event sponsorship and the donation of refurbished equipment they aim to make a difference where they can to the communities within which they are based.
Working with local colleges, the business provides students with hands-on experience. One student has already progressed into a full-time engineering role with Hobb since 2021 and the company is currently supporting another on a similar pathway.
Hobb Computer Services Ltd has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Xpert Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
Founded by Lindsay Mitchell a decade ago, Xpert Recruitment Solutions Ltd has grown sustainably to a £1.75 million turnover.
Based in Stoke-on-Trent, the business has established itself as a trusted recruitment partner for organisations across Staffordshire and beyond, delivering tailored recruitment solutions while maintaining a people-first approach that creates lasting value for both clients and candidates.
Founded by experienced recruiter Lindsay Mitchell, Xpert was built on the belief that recruitment should be about more than simply filling vacancies.
Having worked within large national agencies, Lindsay recognised an opportunity to create a business that focused on genuine partnerships, long-term outcomes and personalised support. Together with fellow Director Alex Mitchell, she has developed Xpert into a respected and growing business that consistently delivers high-quality recruitment services across multiple sectors.
The company’s success is reflected in its strong financial performance. Turnover has grown steadily over recent years, reaching £1.75 million in the financial year ending February 2026. This growth has been achieved through exceptional customer service, repeat business, long-term client retention and strategic diversification into new sectors. Despite operating within a highly competitive and often unpredictable market, Xpert has maintained consistent growth while continuing to invest in its people and services.
At the heart of the business is a highly experienced and dedicated team. Structured across specialist Commercial and Industrial divisions, Xpert offers expert support to clients and candidates through consultants who possess deep industry knowledge and extensive recruitment experience. The Commercial division is led by Jo Thompson, while the Industrial division is managed by Operations Director Shellie Phillips.
Together, the team brings more than 60 years of combined recruitment expertise, enabling Xpert to provide informed guidance, market insight and consistently high standards of service.
Looking ahead, Xpert has ambitious but achievable plans for further growth. Over the next three years, the business aims to increase turnover beyond £2 million, successfully establish its new care division and expand its workforce from seven employees to 10.
Xpert Recruitment Solutions Ltd has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Weather Wise Solutions
Small Business of the Year entrant
Less than two years after it was launched with a £3,000 investment by twin brothers and their friend, Weather Wise Solutions has grown to a team of eight staff, 25 specialist contractors, a significant turnover and a steep growth trajectory.
Importantly for its founders, the Newcastle-under-Lyme-based business also has a strong commitment to supporting the communities within which it is based.
Founded by twin brothers Aaron and Neil from Bucknall alongside shareholder Jake Worrall, Weather Wise Solutions aims to provide homeowners with honest advice, accurate diagnosis and effective solutions to damp, mould, condensation and timber-related property issues.
The three shareholders each invested £1,000 of their own money to launch the business, with no external funding or investment. Everything achieved since has been built through hard work, expertise, determination and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
The business has invested heavily in operational capability and now operates a fleet of more than 20 vehicles, enabling the company to provide reliable services throughout Staffordshire, the Midlands and the North West.
A team of four fully qualified surveyors collectively undertake approximately 4,160 in-person property surveys every year. These surveys allow thousands of homeowners to receive professional advice and accurate diagnosis for issues relating to damp, mould, condensation and timber defects.
The business proudly sponsors local sports teams and supports Newcastle-under-Lyme Golf Club. Shareholder Jake Worrall has organised a Charity Golf Day in partnership with Keele Golf Centre, which will take place on June 24, 2026 in aid of the Band of Builders Charity.
Weather Wise Solutions Ltd has entered the Start-up Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year and Growth Award categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The Hammersley Restaurant
Small Business of the Year entrant
The Hammersley Restaurant is Stoke-on-Trent College’s award-winning, AA -recognised training restaurant run by a team of talented and passionate hospitality and catering students.
Described on TripAdvisor as a ‘secret gem’, the restaurant offers quality dining experiences for guests and a valuable learning experience for students, giving them invaluable, hands-on training that prepares them for the working world.
The aim is to be more than just a restaurant, but rather to create opportunities that change lives.
The students that work in The Hammersley are the head chefs of the future, the budding restaurateurs and the managers that keep service ticking and make sure guests go home happy.
The restaurant offers seasonal menus and themed events that showcase a wide range of students’ talents as well as the locally sourced ingredients.
Over the past two years the college has invested £200,000 in a state-of-the-art, industry standard pastry kitchen, providing learners with access to the latest equipment and preparing them for the varied demands of the modern culinary world. This has enabled the college to offer high-quality pastry training, giving students access to specialised, sought after industry skills.
Since opening the doors of the Hammersley Restaurant in October 2023 the college has seen considerable growth in demand and it has quickly become established as a fine dining mainstay and a hub of hospitality excellence, growth and innovation.
The Hammersley Restaurant has entered the Small Business of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The Career Owl
Small Business of the Year entrant
The Career Owl was set up by HR professional Kathryn Hall in 2019 to help people build careers that work with their lives rather than against them.
Founded from a combination of extensive HR experience, coaching expertise and a genuine passion for people development, the business supports professionals who feel stuck, undervalued or uncertain about their next step.
Through a highly personalised and coaching-led approach, Tamworth-based Kathryn helps her clients gain clarity, confidence and direction so they can make career decisions with purpose.
Before launching The Career Owl she spent over 13 years working in HR across industries including logistics, manufacturing, fashion retail and technology. Earlier experience in retail management with Sainsbury’s developed her leadership, communication and people management skills.
Following the birth of her son Kathryn took a career break which gave her the opportunity to reflect on what had energised me most throughout my career. She decided she was at my best when helping people recognise their strengths, build confidence and progress in their careers. Friends, former colleagues and referrals increasingly approached her for support with CVs, LinkedIn profiles, interviews and career direction. What began as informal guidance quickly evolved into a business.
The Career Owl was built around the belief that career support should go beyond simply helping someone apply for jobs.
Kathryn said: “Many people come to me feeling successful on paper but deeply unfulfilled, while others are navigating redundancy, returning to work after a break or questioning whether the career they have built still fits the life they want now.
“I help clients understand themselves before making their next move, exploring their strengths, motivations, values and long-term goals so their decisions are intentional rather than reactive.
“What differentiates my business from many traditional CV writing or coaching services is the combination of strategic HR expertise and emotional insight. I understand recruitment and leadership from the inside, but I also recognise the confidence barriers and self-doubt that often prevent talented people from progressing.
“My approach blends practical support with honest, supportive coaching so clients leave not only with stronger applications, but with greater belief in themselves.”
Every client journey is tailored. Kathryn works closely with professionals at different career stages, including aspiring leaders, senior executives, career changers and those rebuilding confidence after setbacks. To complement her one-to-one coaching and career support she has developed accessible self-led resources for individuals who may not yet be ready for coaching or who want additional guidance between sessions. These include practical toolkits for early career professionals and those transitioning into leadership roles, alongside free resources designed to help people gain clarity and confidence.
Kathryn has focused heavily on building a supportive and accessible online presence. Through consistent, value-led content across social media she has achieved more than 120,000 impressions and more than 15,900 article views in the past 12 months. Since its launch in December 2023 her podcast, Your Path to Career Success, has achieved more than 3,000 downloads and reached listeners in 79 countries across six continents.
The business has continued to grow through reputation, referrals and meaningful results.
Kathryn added: “I have now supported almost 1,000 clients, with approximately 95% securing a new role within three to six months. These outcomes reflect far more than job applications; they represent people rebuilding confidence, stepping into leadership positions, changing direction with purpose and creating careers that better align with their lives and values.
“One of the achievements I am most proud of is creating a business that combines commercial success with genuine social impact. Career uncertainty can affect confidence, wellbeing and identity, yet many people feel they must navigate these challenges alone. Through The Career Owl, I aim to normalise career change, provide accessible guidance and create a supportive space where people feel heard, valued and empowered.
“As a solopreneur, I have intentionally built a business rooted in authenticity, trust and long-term relationships rather than volume or one-size-fits-all solutions. Many clients continue working with me beyond their original goals because the support evolves alongside their career journey.
“Whether someone is pursuing promotion, recovering from redundancy, changing career direction or stepping into leadership for the first time, my focus remains the same: helping people recognise their value and move forward with clarity and confidence.”
This month Kathryn will publish her first book, bringing together practical career frameworks, coaching insights and lessons from supporting hundreds of clients, alongside reflections from her own leadership career.
Kathryn has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and has entered The Career Owl into the Small Business of the Year category.
The Pooch Pad
Small Business of the Year entrant
Eleanor Young has a first class law degree but turned her back on her legal career to pursue a dream of working with dogs.
She worked in wills and probate and then the civil service after graduating but, after being made redundant, decided to take the opportunity to start her own business.
The Pooch Pad, in Eccleshall, offers members only doggy day care and luxury boarding with home comforts including a flat screen TV, air conditioning, sofas and a ball pool.
Eleanor, now aged 28, has purposefully positioned The Pooch Pad at the luxury end of the market. She specifically caters for small dogs and has a waiting list of pet owners who are queueing up to become a member.
She said: “Entrepreneurship is often associated with disruption, innovation and taking calculated risks. My entrepreneurial journey began with one of the biggest risks of my life, leaving the security of a legal career at 26 years old to build a business from scratch in an industry I believed could offer more.
“I created The Pooch Pad after identifying an opportunity within the pet care market that I felt had been overlooked. While pet ownership had evolved significantly and owners increasingly viewed their dogs as family members, many day care environments had remained largely functional and volume driven. I believed there was space for something different.
“My vision was to create a premium, boutique experience dedicated specifically to small dogs, one that prioritised quality, trust and customer experience over scale.
“Launching the business required calculated risk taking. I moved away from a traditional professional career path to pursue a completely different industry, investing not only financially but personally into building something that reflected my own values and standards.
“The early stages required learning new disciplines quickly: operations, licensing, customer acquisition, marketing, finance, service design and brand building, whilst continuing to deliver day-to-day services personally.
“Rather than replicating existing models, I designed The Pooch Pad around a membership structure. This decision became one of the most important innovations within the business.
“The membership approach allowed attendance to remain intentionally controlled, creating carefully matched groups of dogs, stronger customer relationships and a more consistent experience. Instead of focusing on volume, the business was designed to maintain exclusivity and quality.
“This model challenged expectations of what dog day care could be. The result has been sustained demand, high levels of customer loyalty and waiting lists for memberships.
“What makes this growth particularly meaningful is that it has been achieved independently and intentionally. Every decision has been made with long-term sustainability in mind rather than rapid expansion.”
Eleanor Young has entered the Young Business Person of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and has entered The Pooch Pad into the Start-up Business of the Year, Growth and Small Business of the Year categories.
Wavemaker Stoke CIC
Small Business of the Year entrant
Wavemaker Stoke CIC was set up to bridge the digital divide and ensure that people across Stoke-on-Trent are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.
Since 2015 it has worked at the intersection of community, technology, education and social impact, helping residents gain the digital access, confidence and skills they need for everyday life, employment, health, wellbeing and future opportunity.
The CIC was set up by co-founders and directors Alex Rowley, who was born and bred in Stoke-on-Trent, and University of Staffordshire alumni Ben McManus.
Over the last two years, through the UKSPF-funded DigitAll programme, Wavemaker has delivered a city-wide digital inclusion model across Stoke-on-Trent, designed to reach people who are often furthest from opportunity.
This has included economically inactive residents, job seekers, older adults, people experiencing social isolation, families, school pupils, community volunteers and those facing barriers linked to poverty, confidence, health, disability or lack of access to technology.
Wavemaker has built a strong local delivery ecosystem, working with 45 partner organisations and establishing 20 hyper-local digital hubs across community settings such as foodbanks, family hubs, employment centres and trusted local venues.
These hubs bring support into the places people already know and trust, rather than expecting residents to find their way into formal training environments. This approach has helped create a welcoming, accessible and community-led model of support.
In the last two years Wavemaker has distributed 571 laptops to economically inactive residents, delivered 408 face-to-face digital skills sessions and trained 2,298 adults. Each laptop, session and learner represents someone gaining the ability to apply for work, manage appointments, access services, stay connected, learn new skills or take greater control of their life.
Wavemaker CIC has entered the Skills for the Future, Team of the Year, Innovation, Business in the Community and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Beeston Shenton Solicitors
Small Business of the Year entrant
Approaching 22 years in business, Beeston Shenton Solicitors has established itself as a trusted independent legal practice by combining strong commercial performance with exceptional client service, operational discipline and investment in people.
Operating within a sector often perceived as complex, expensive and impersonal, the firm has intentionally positioned itself differently. Its approach is centred around simplifying legal services, improving transparency and delivering clear, accessible communication that places the client experience at the centre of every interaction.
This strategy has enabled the business to achieve sustained growth while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and client loyalty.
Today the Newcastle-under-Lyme based firm supports more than 1,600 active clients and more than 50% of all new work is generated through repeat business and referrals, demonstrating the strength of the firm’s reputation, service quality and trusted relationships within the local community and wider region.
Over the past three financial years, Beeston Shenton has delivered consistent year-on-year growth alongside consecutive annual profit margin growth of 10%. This has been achieved through careful operational management and strategic development rather than aggressive expansion.
Since taking over as Managing Director during COVID, Russell Dutton has steered the firm through significant operational and commercial challenges, making difficult but necessary decisions around structure and business priorities that have strengthened long-term resilience and profitability while maintaining first-class client service.
Expansion into specialist legal services including contested probate, litigation, trusts of land and commercial property has enabled the firm to increase average case value while maintaining a reliable foundation of core private client work. This approach has strengthened profitability, reduced commercial risk and positioned the business for continued long-term growth.
The business has also demonstrated strong commercial discipline through targeted operational restructuring, reduction of inefficiencies and strategic recruitment into key departments such as litigation and conveyancing. These improvements have streamlined operations, improved profitability and allowed the business to continue investing in high-growth specialist services without compromising service delivery.
Beeston Shenton Solicitors has entered the Small Business of the Year, Growth and Team of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Turnaround Print Services
Small Business of the Year entrant
Little more than a year after its launch Staffordshire-based Turnaround Print Services has exceeded its projected turnover, attracted nearly 300 customers and recruited a team of four staff.
The print and branding company was created from scratch in March 2025 with no inherited customer base or guaranteed revenue streams.
It offers services including signage, promotional products, vehicle graphics, workwear, websites and print. It has already been awarded SME Best Express Printer – West Midlands 2026.
Managing Director Derrith Turner said: “Since launch we have focused on building meaningful customer relationships, delivering exceptional service and creating long-term partnerships rather than simply processing orders.
“This customer-first approach has enabled us to establish a strong reputation in a highly competitive market and achieve significant growth within our first year of trading.
“A major strength of our model is our ability to become embedded within our customers' businesses. By supporting them throughout their growth journey, we generate long-term relationships that lead to repeat orders, referrals and sustainable revenue growth.
“The success of this approach is reflected in the fact that we have successfully acquired 296 customers within our first year of trading, entirely through networking, referrals and relationship development.
“Our success has been driven by a genuine commitment to helping customers succeed, building lasting relationships and delivering exceptional service. Combined with our environmental initiatives, community-focused values and ambitious growth plans, we believe Turnaround Print Services Ltd represents an outstanding example of a successful new business with a bright and sustainable future.
“We are proud of what we have achieved in such a short space of time and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Turnaround Print Services has entered the Start-up Business of the Year, Growth, Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Currie Young
Small Business of the Year entrant
Currie Young Insolvency & Restructuring is redefining what innovation looks like within a traditionally conservative professional services sector, helped by a collaboration with University of Staffordshire.
The business has offices in Manchester, Lichfield and Halesowen alongside its head office in Campbell Road, Stoke.
Operating within the advisory, restructuring and business support environment, it recognised early that the profession was facing increasing operational pressures. Rising regulatory demands, growing client expectations, recruitment challenges and significant administrative burden were placing strain on traditional operating models, many of which still relied heavily on manual processes and legacy systems.
At the same time, businesses increasingly expected professional advisors to be more responsive, commercially agile and technologically capable, without losing the reassurance and expertise that come from experienced human advisors.
Rather than viewing innovation as a standalone technology exercise, Currie Young approached it as a long-term business strategy focused on modernising service delivery, improving operational efficiency, scalability and future-proofing the business for sustainable growth.
Central to this journey has been a collaborative relationship with University of Staffordshire through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership, enabling the business to combine industry expertise with academic research, digital capability and innovation-led thinking in a way that remains relatively uncommon within the wider professional services sector.
Currie Young wanted to address the genuine operational challenge of highly skilled professionals spending disproportionate amounts of time on repetitive administration, duplicated data entry and fragmented information gathering, reducing efficiency and the time available for strategic advisory work and client relationships.
Through analysing internal workflows and operational bottlenecks, it identified onboarding and information capture as one of the most resource-intensive stages within the client engagement process. Historically, the collection, organisation and processing of information had remained largely manual despite growing demands for speed, accuracy and transparency.
Working collaboratively with the University, it developed a bespoke digital First Day Information onboarding and information management system designed around the practical realities of complex professional service workflows.
The resulting platform automates aspects of document collection, workflow preparation and data structuring, creating a more streamlined and scalable operational model while improving collaboration and responsiveness across the business.
The impact of the innovation has already been significant. By modernising onboarding and workflow processes, Currie Young has materially reduced administrative burden, improved consistency across case handling and enhanced operational responsiveness. Teams are able to access and process information more efficiently, collaborate more effectively and dedicate greater time to strategic and advisory work.
Currie Young Insolvency & Restructuring has entered the Innovation, Business in the Community and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The Pottery Shed Swinfen
Small Business of the Year entrant
The Pottery Shed Swinfen was set up at Heart of the Country Village, near Lichfield, in June 2025 by owner Tamara Skipworth.
Customers can paint pottery, create baby hand and footprints or attend workshops and parties in a relaxed, café setting.
There are ready-to-paint ceramics to suit all ages and abilities. Two hour painting timeslots are standard so there is no rush to complete that masterpiece.
Workshops vary seasonally but include options for children, adults and date nights to keep the grown-ups entertained.
The Pottery Shed is also available for hen parties, baby showers, team building sessions or birthday celebrations with optional afternoon tea packages.
The Pottery Shed Swinfen has entered the Start-up Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
AMB Insurance Services Ltd
Small Business of the Year entrant
Wolstanton-based AMB Insurance Services Ltd is the largest independent chartered broker in Staffordshire. It supports SMEs and mid corporate clients across the Midlands.
The name ‘AMB’ comes from the initials of the Managing Director, Andrew Mark Barrow, who set up the company in 1998.
Over the past five years the business has grown significantly through a combination of organic growth, strategic acquisitions and client retention driven by quality advice.
It has set out to challenge a long-standing norm in its sector that insurance is transactional. Instead it has developed an advice-led model that integrates insurance into wider business decision-making. This includes detailed risk diagnostics for every client, identification of uninsured or poorly understood exposures, alignment of insurance with contracts, operations and growth plans plus proactive support before claims occur.
The company prides itself on giving back to the communities within which is based, with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility running through everything it does. ‘Strong communities create strong businesses’ is one of the company’s mantras.
Every member of staff is encouraged to get actively involved with good causes whether that is through fundraising, volunteering or becoming a trustee. The Managing Director puts his money where his mouth is by serving as a trustee of The Peter Pan Centre.
Last Christmas all staff donated the value of the Christmas meal they were gifted by the company so that it could be given to charity.
Recent community work has included raising £25,000 for the Peter Pan Centre, supporting children with developmental needs across North Staffordshire, generating £10,000 through the Aviva Community Fund for Alice Charities Big Cup to enable expanded support for families and carers and donating £3,000 to Alice Charity, Gingerbread and the Peter Pan Centre through its Christmas giving initiative, where the company redirected client gifting budgets to those in need.
Andrew Barrow said: “The culture is very much the driver of the business at AMB. Relationships are everything, whether that’s staff, customers or clients.”
AMB Insurance Services has entered the Small Business of the Year and Business in the Community categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Jennie Candlish Racing
Small Business of the Year nominee
Staffordshire-based racehorse trainer Jennie Candlish was forced to close her yard just weeks after one of the biggest wins of her career after one of her horses tested positive for a contagious illness.
Jennie, whose yard is in Cheddleton, was unable to run horses from the beginning of December last year until she was cleared to reopen on Christmas Eve.
One of the horses in her care had tested positive for strangles, which can make it difficult for horses to breathe.
It came just weeks after one of the biggest successes of her training career when Alzahir won the Prox de Bonneval at Chantilly last October.
Jennie, who is now back to her winning ways, has been nominated for the University of Staffordshire Business Awards by Kerry Bogdanski of Dapper Dog Grooming.
Kerry said: “Jennie Candlish deserves recognition because she has built a highly successful dual-purpose yard through ambition, resilience and exceptional horsemanship.
“Her business has delivered sustained results, a standout period for prize money and a growing reputation for improving horses and getting the best out of them.
“Her success has reached black-type level too, with Alzahir giving her a first Listed success on the flat in France, while her runners have also competed at major meetings including Royal Ascot.
“What makes Jennie stand out even more is the way that growth has been achieved. She creates real opportunities for young people in racing, giving them structure, discipline, confidence and a future in the industry.
“Her resilience has also been exceptional. When the yard was forced to close after a positive strangles case, it was handled responsibly and professionally, the outbreak was contained and the yard returned to success.
“Jennie Candlish represents real growth, results, prize money, resilience and opportunity for others. She has built a yard with heart, standards and staying power and she is a very deserving nominee.”
Jennie Candlish Racing has been nominated in the Team of the Year, Growth and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.