Celebrate Local Excellence at the 2026 NWN Best in Business Awards

The NWN Best in Business Awards returns for 2026, promising to be a larger and more vibrant celebration of local businesses in West Berkshire. Sponsored by AP&C, the event will take place on April 10, 2026, at the Newbury Racecourse. This year’s awards aim to honor the achievements of businesses in the district while providing ample networking opportunities for attendees.

The evening will feature a lively atmosphere with engaging activities, including casino tables, street food, and a disco for guests to enjoy. Additionally, racing simulators will be available, courtesy of Forrest Motorsport, who will also sponsor the drinks reception. This interactive competition will allow local businesses to engage in friendly rivalry while celebrating their successes.

Nominations for the awards opened at 08:00 on Thursday, allowing businesses to enter up to two categories. Categories include Best Business Innovation, Best Customer Experience, and Best Green Business, among others. According to Andy Murill, editor of the Newbury Weekly News, “The NWN Best in Business Awards celebrate everything good in the West Berkshire business community.” He emphasized the awards’ role in championing the local economy since their inception in 2017.

The awards will culminate in the crowning of West Berkshire’s Business of the Year, selected from the category winners by the main sponsor, AP&C. Last year’s top honor went to Newbury Soup Kitchen, which also secured the Team of the Year award. Founder Meryl Praill expressed her surprise and gratitude, stating, “I genuinely didn’t expect that last award. It is lovely to be recognized and for the team to be recognized was great.”

In addition to the business categories, the John Hampson Award will once again be presented. This award honors organizations that significantly support young people in the community, in memory of John Hampson, a key figure in establishing the business awards. Last year, the award was given to Code Ninjas, with director Marcus Brind remarking, “We’re proud to be able to give back to the Newbury community and serve as a stepping stone for future generations.”

Businesses interested in participating can submit their nominations at www.nwnbestinbusinessawards.co.uk. The submission window will close at 16:00 on January 29, 2026. Additionally, information regarding sponsorship opportunities is available through the same website, encouraging further community engagement and support.

The NWN Best in Business Awards not only recognize exceptional business practices but also foster a sense of community within West Berkshire, highlighting the region’s commitment to innovation and collaboration.