Winners announced at Mayor of Lewisham's Business Awards
On Tuesday 19 November, winners were announced across fifteen award categories for the annual and highly anticipated Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards held at Catford’s iconic and newly renovated Broadway Theatre. (Read the full list of winners below.)
This year’s award series received overwhelming and unprecedented public engagement, with close to 9,000 votes and nominations and 300 attendees to the awards ceremony.
Lewisham is home to a thriving business community that is proudly independent, diverse and innovative. The Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards are a chance for organisations who are working hard to boost local economic growth and provide opportunities that benefit their local communities and the wider borough. From best restaurant to best in creative sector, the awards highlight the depth and breadth of the businesses in Lewisham.
Being an award winner has proven to be an incredible opportunity for local businesses. Past award winners were the face of our recent and successful Discover Lewisham this summer campaign.
The ceremony was hosted by Robbie Gee and Eddie Nestor MBE, who brought their signature flair and energy to the event. To make the evening even more memorable – the audience was treated to captivating performances by IRIE! Dance Theatre and the Lewisham Goes Gospel choir. Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth, Howard Dawber, spoke about the London Growth Plan.
Lewisham Council programmes have supported over 250 residents taking that first brave step to start their business, invested £1million in our high streets, workspace and local business community through our UK Shared Prosperity Fund and supported 1,200 residents on their employment journey.
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres said:
“It is a pleasure to gather again in the Broadway Theatre for Lewisham’s annual business awards. Lewisham has a resilient, unique, and authentic economy. Last night, we celebrated businesses who play a central role in creating a stronger, fairer economy. Congratulations to every nominee and every winner. Lewisham is proud of you.”
Cabinet member for Member for Business, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Kim Powell said:
Over the past year we have seen remarkable achievements from our local business
community. As a Council, we remain committed to supporting our start-ups, our independent businesses, our growing business, and our high streets. The Council has been busy delivering targeted support to help entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality.
Here’s to another year building a prosperous business community and realising the potential of residents. Thank you to all the amazing businesses taking part this evening.
This event was proudly supported by Better, Landsec and Lewisham College.
The Winners
Best visitor attraction
Beckenham Place Park Mansion
Beckenham Place Park boasts scenery of outstanding beauty. The park is home to a lake and ancient woodland and features various listed buildings which are being renovated.
Best sustainable business
Zer0 Waste Corner
An environmentally shop where you can find a range of natural and biodegradable products.
DragonFly Yoga
Yoga and Pilates studio in Sydenham with classes designed to improve your flexibility, strength, and overall wellbeing.
Leo's Café
Leo is a vegan & vegetarian cafe based in Sydenham offering a space for events, co-working and great food.
Best online business
Kids Black History Classroom
An online education platform sharing knowledge about Black history.
Best community contribution
Ignition Brewery
A brewery based in Sydenham which employs and trains people with learning disabilities to brew and serve great beer.
Best new business
The Vegan Patty Lady
Founded by Natasha Orumbie, The Vegan Patty Lady offers plant-based patties crafted to deliver authentic flavours with high-quality vegan ingredients.
Best in creative sector
D&B Academy of Performing Arts
A performing arts school that offers a holistic balanced curriculum of professional training through college, theatre school and agency.
Best Restaurant
Gurkha’s
Based in Sydenham Gurkha’s offers Nepalese dishes alongside classic Indian curries.
Best High Street
Bunka
Bunka is an independent lifestyle store bringing design-led fashion, homewares and gifts for women, men, babies and kids.
Best café
Dolce Dessert and Café
Based in Catford, the café serves delicious all-day breakfasts, fresh coffee and sweet treats.
Best bar, pub or nighttime economy business
Blythe Hill Tavern
The Blythe Hill Tavern is traditional Victorian corner pub where you will find a warm welcome and a great selection of real ales on tap.
Best hair and beauty
Scissors and Nails
A stone's throw from Lewisham Shopping Centre, Scissors & Nails offer you the perfect spot to refresh and renew your look.
Best independent food retailer
Turkish Food Centre
A hub for Mediterranean groceries, fresh produce, and vibrant flavours.
Best independent business
Kindred Yoga
A studio based in Deptford creating a relaxing environment for people to nurture their yoga practice.
Best market
Horniman's Museum Sunday Market
Open every Sunday, the market offers seasonal fruit, vegetables, street food, and stalls selling locally made, ethical body care, clothing, jewellery, and crafts using organic or eco-friendly materials.
Lewisham Legacy Award
Richard Simpson at Cummin’ Up
Cummin’ Up were recognised for their decades-long dedication serving the people of Lewisham with delicious Jamaican flavours, as well as for their charitable work, including providing meals to the community on Christmas Day.