2026 Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards

Celebrating Local Businesses

The 2026 Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards were held on Friday 9th October at The Apex. Members of our Bury St Edmunds and Mildenhall offices attended for a fantastic evening celebrating local businesses.

The night started with a drinks reception and music by local students, which was followed by a sit down meal and dessert sharing platters. The awards ceremony began and our host for 2026 was none other than Shaun Williamson (more commonly known as Barry from Eastenders). Yes, he did treat us all to some Barrie-oke on the night.

We were proud to once again sponsor the Contribution to the Community Award, this time as the Whitings Group. This award champions businesses and local groups that support people in need, and make a real difference to those most vulnerable in our society.

Whilst all of the nominees are deserving in their own rights, we are pleased to say that the winner of our sponsored award was the Moreton Mens Group. They are a small group of dedicated people, working hard to recognise the benefits that can be provided through sport and teamwork to tackle loneliness and mens mental health issues.

The 2026 Bury Free Press Business Awards. Contribution to the Community – Winner. Pic – Richard Marsham

The Bury Drop In received the Highly Commended in the Contribution to the Community category this year.

The 2026 Bury Free Press Business Awards. Contribution to the Community – Highly Commended. Pic – Richard Marsham

The 2026 Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Award Winners are:

• Apprentice / Trainee of the Year – Ella Barker (Toolbox Marketing)
• Freelancer of the Year – Jenna Basford Interiors
• Employee of the Year – Annabelle York
• Contribution to the Community – Moreton Mens Group CIC
• Customer Service Award – The Wine Cellar Bury St Edmunds
• Green / Environment Award – Lignacite
• Manufacturing & Innovation – KluraLabs
• Investing in West Suffolk – EDR Technology
• Best New Start-Up – Hair Artistry
• Business Leader of the Year – Ben Smith (Cross Country Carriers)
• Business of the Year (Small) – Midgar Coffee
• Business of the Year (Medium / Large) – Cameron Ventures Group
• Lifetime Achievement – Brian Keene (Cameron Ventures Group)

Congratulations To All

We’d like to say a huge congratulations to the many highly commended and nominated businesses and groups. These events demonstrate the innovation, ambition and shared spirit that make West Suffolk a wonderful place to live and a vibrant place to do business.