There’s something about the buzz in the room on the night of the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards that’s hard to describe. It’s not just about the champagne or the sparkle, though there’s certainly plenty of both. It’s something deeper.
As Sarah Austin, Awards Director, Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards, explains, it is the sense that, for one night, British businesses of all sizes, from all sectors, get the recognition they so richly deserve.
In a world of 24/7 hustle, where teams are often running at full tilt and achievements can be quickly swept aside in the rush to meet the next deadline, business awards are one of the few moments where we can hit pause, take stock, and say — “we did that.” And that’s not just good for morale. It’s good for business.
I’m proud to lead the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards — widely regarded as the UK’s largest and most prestigious business awards. As former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt rightly put it, “The BBEA is the great renaissance of Great British business.” And having seen first-hand the transformational impact these awards can have — not just on the winners, but on every company that chooses to put itself forward — I can tell you with absolute certainty: entering a business award can be a game-changer.
Recognition matters — inside and out
Let’s start with your team. Your people are your most valuable asset, and the past few years have pushed them harder than ever. Recognising their dedication with an independent stamp of excellence isn’t just a pat on the back — it’s a public declaration that their hard work is paying off. When employees see the company they’ve built or supported being recognised on a national stage, it ignites pride, boosts motivation, and reinforces a shared sense of purpose. The UK is globally known for its sensational talent , let’s put us on the global stage.
But awards do more than energise your workforce. They send a strong message to your customers, your suppliers, and your stakeholders. When a business is shortlisted — or better still, wins — it signals that you’re operating at the top of your game. That matters in the boardroom. It matters in the marketplace. And it matters in your supply chain.
In fact, we hear time and again from entrants that even making it to the finalist stage opens new doors. Whether it’s landing a game-changing contract, attracting investment, or becoming a partner of choice in a crowded field, awards can add weight and credibility that no marketing campaign can match.
The process is the prize
Still unsure? Here’s another reason to enter: the process itself is a gift.
To submit a strong award entry, you need to take a step back and reflect. What have you achieved? Where have you made a difference? What lessons have you learned? In the day-to-day whirlwind, there’s rarely time for this kind of strategic stocktake — yet it’s incredibly powerful.
Time and again, our applicants tell us that preparing their entries helped them clarify their goals, refine their messaging, and spot opportunities for improvement. Some even say the act of entering was more beneficial than the win itself. That’s the magic of a well-designed awards programme — it helps you tell your story better, internally and externally.
It’s not just for the big players
One of the biggest myths I encounter is that awards are only for huge companies with corporate PR teams and glossy brochures. Not so.
The BBEA is open to businesses of all shapes and sizes — from early-stage disruptors to high-growth SMEs and household-name giants. We have categories that celebrate sustainability, purpose-driven leadership, customer excellence, and innovation, to name just a few. If your business is making waves in any of these areas, there’s a category for you.
What we care about is impact, not headcount. Ambition, not advertising budgets. We want to celebrate those quietly changing the game, those doing the right thing, those striving — day in, day out — to make a difference.
Time is running out — don’t miss your chance
So here’s the call to action: if you’ve ever thought about entering a business award — or even if you haven’t — this is your moment. You have just 17 days left to enter the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2025, and I cannot urge you strongly enough to seize the opportunity.
This isn’t just another trophy for the cabinet. It’s a chance to shine a light on what makes your business great. It’s a platform to celebrate your people, to raise your profile, and to join a prestigious community of excellence that spans every sector and region of the UK.
So be part of the renaissance. Celebrate what you’ve built. Champion your team. And show the world what British business can really do.
Entries close in just 17 days — don’t miss out. Visit www.britishbusinessexcellenceawards.co.uk to find your category and start your journey.
Read more:
Why business awards are more than just trophies — they’re catalysts for growth