We’re pleased to announce our Wigan Borough Business Awards 2026 FINALISTS!
START UP business OF THE YEAR
This award celebrates new businesses that have hit the ground running and are already making an impact within the Wigan Borough. It recognises fresh ideas, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit, celebrating businesses that have shown impressive progress and potential in their first year of trading.
OUR FINALISTS:
- Kore by Kate
- Padel Parx
- The Retreat Wellbeing Sanctuary Limited
- Body. Brain. Belief CIC
MICRO BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Micro Business of the Year Award celebrates the outstanding achievements of small enterprises that have made a big impact in the local community.
OUR FINALISTS:
- NJ Cleaning
- Iconic Fitness Ltd
- Home Visit Pet Care Wigan Ltd
- Leigh Executive Travel
- Ready Health
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Small Business of the Year Award recognises the remarkable achievements of local businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and resilience in the face of challenges.
OUR FINALISTS:
- Structures Pointing Ltd
- Langen Motorcycles
- GMS Services Ltd
- R Banks & Son (Funerals) Ltd
- VOCA Fire Protection Ltd
- Union Inns
- Garton Ltd T/A Smith Bullough
MEDIUM TO LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Medium to Large Business of the Year Award recognises the outstanding achievements of established enterprises that have made significant contributions to the local economy and community.
OUR FINALISTS:
Sustainable BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
This category celebrates the outstanding contributions of businesses within the borough to ensuring the future of our planet. This category recognises their dedication to reducing impact, ensuring commitment from their team and supply chain and inspiring others on the sustainability journey.
OUR FINALISTS:
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
The Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates the remarkable achievements of apprentices who have shown outstanding dedication and progress in their chosen fields.
OUR FINALISTS:
Digital, Creative and Technology Business of the Year
OUR FINALISTS:
This category celebrates a forward-thinking digital, creative, or technology-led business that has demonstrated excellence, innovation, and measurable impact within its sector. Open to businesses operating across digital marketing, design, media, technology, software, creative services, and content creation, this award recognises organisations that are pushing boundaries, delivering exceptional results, and contributing positively to clients, employees, and the wider community.
chARITY OF THE YEAR
The Charity of the Year Award recognises the remarkable impact of charitable organisations that serve our local community. These organisations show compassion, dedication, and selflessness in their efforts to address social needs and improve the lives of those they serve. From providing essential services to advocating for change, these charities play a crucial role in building a stronger, more inclusive community. This award celebrates their commitment and recognises the transformative work they do day in and day out within our local community.
OUR FINALISTS:
CIC/SOCIAL ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR
The CIC/Social Enterprise of the Year Award celebrates the outstanding contributions of social enterprises and community interest companies (CICs) which are making a positive impact within the Wigan Borough. These organisations demonstrate a unique blend of business acumen and social responsibility, using their innovative models to address social and environmental challenges. From empowering marginalised communities to promoting sustainability, CICs and social enterprises play a pivotal role in driving positive change and creating a more equitable society. This award honours their dedication, creativity, and commitment to making a difference in our community
OUR FINALISTS:
MANUFACTURING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Manufacturing Business of the Year Award celebrates the excellence and innovation within Wigan’s manufacturing industry.
OUR FINALISTS:
- IDEM Safety Switches Ltd
- Nice-Pak International
outstanding contribution OF THE YEAR
The Outstanding Contribution Award celebrates individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting impact within Wigan Borough’s business community. This award recognises those who consistently go above and beyond, whether through leadership, mentorship, innovation, or supporting colleagues and peers.
OUR FINALISTS:
- Jacqueline Cannon – The Lewy Body Society
- Mike Sharkey – Greenmount Projects
- Gary Speakman – Wigan Youth Zone
- Dave Morris – Boxing For Better CIC
construction business OF THE YEAR
This category recognises an outstanding construction business that has demonstrated excellence, professionalism and positive impact within the borough. Open to businesses of all sizes across the construction sector, including building, civil engineering, trades, contractors and specialist services such as surveyors, planners and architects, this award celebrates those who consistently deliver high-quality work while upholding strong values.
OUR FINALISTS:
- LCS Civils
- GMS Services Ltd
- Greenmount Projects
- Structures Group
transport, distribution & storage business OF THE YEAR
This category recognises an outstanding business operating within the transport, logistics, distribution, or storage sectors that has demonstrated excellence, reliability, and measurable impact. Open to businesses of all sizes, this award celebrates organisations that deliver exceptional service, innovate within the industry, and contribute positively to clients, employees, and the wider community.
OUR FINALISTS:
- Sure Store Wigan
- Leigh Executive Travel
- G&T Express
OUR PARTNERS
