Torbay Business Awards 2026: a night of community champions, innovation and local pride

There is always something unmistakable about the Torbay Business Awards, a sense that for one night, the pressures of running a business are set aside in favour of celebration, recognition and a shared belief in the Bay’s future.

This year’s event at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay was no exception, bringing together entrepreneurs, community leaders and organisations from across South Devon to recognise achievement across sectors ranging from retail and hospitality to sustainability, apprenticeships and innovation.

Hosted in front of a packed audience, the evening celebrated businesses and individuals who are not only surviving in a challenging economic climate, but actively shaping the future of the region.

A strong opening category, the Commissioner’s Business Community Champion Award, set the tone for the night. Sponsored by the Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, the award recognised those working closely with local partners to strengthen community safety and resilience.

The winner, Andrew Bond of Premier Torbay Central, was praised for his outstanding dedication to tackling shoplifting in Torquay and for building a strong partnership with police through the early adoption of the UKPAC reporting tool.

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner said: "an uplifting celebration of the success of Torbay businesses. It was a privilege to recognise Andrew Bond of Premier in Torquay for his efforts to tackle shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in the town and championing the new business crime reporting tool UKPAC funded by my office".

The focus on skills and future talent continued with the Outstanding Apprentice Award, where judges were unable to separate two standout entrants. Joint winners Ellen Thieman of Tomlinson Solutions and James Lavis of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were recognised for their professionalism, work ethic and commitment to their development within their respective organisations.

Sustainability also took centre stage with the Greener Futures Award, sponsored by Wollens, awarded to South Devon College. The college was recognised for embedding ESG principles across its organisation and delivering measurable, long-term carbon reduction through a structured, governance-led strategy.

The Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Torbay Business Forum, went to Riviera Wellbeing, praised for its impact and contribution within the local business landscape.

Another highlight came in the form of the James Wright Award for Inspirational Leader, presented by Mark Wright, which went to Barry Young of Brixham Trawler Agents. The award celebrated leadership, sector contribution and long-term influence within the region’s vital fishing industry.

The Rising Star Award, sponsored by the Princess Theatre, was awarded to Alicia Rose Sandercock of International Talent Management UK, recognised for her rapid impact, commercial success and ability to influence standards beyond her organisation.

Innovation remained a key theme throughout the evening, with the Innovation Award, sponsored by Spirent (now part of Keysight), awarded to Tomlinson Solutions. Judges praised the company’s people-first, secure-by-design approach, combining cybersecurity, leadership and continuous improvement to support business growth.

Following a short break, attention turned to the second half of the ceremony, which included guest speakers Chris Wheeler of Willmott Dixon and David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, who spoke about regeneration, investment and partnership working across the Bay.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came with the presentation of the Lifetime Award for Contribution to the Community, presented to Steve Holdup, affectionately known locally as “Father Christmas” for his decades of work bringing festive events, carnivals and community celebrations to Torbay.

His contribution spans more than four decades, including organising Christmas lights, town centre events, carnivals, grottoes and fundraising initiatives, alongside extensive voluntary work through Rotary and local charities.

In sport, the Sport Award, sponsored by Torquay United Football Club, was awarded to the Torbay Half Marathon and 10k, recognised for its role in encouraging participation, promoting wellbeing and bringing communities together across the English Riviera.

The Best New Business Award went to BANK, praised for breathing new life into a previously unused building in the heart of Torquay and transforming it into a vibrant community-focused venue.

The Inspiring Employer of the Year Award was won by Jazz Hands CIC (Palace Theatre, Paignton), with judges highlighting exceptional employee engagement and a workplace culture where staff feel valued, supported and empowered.

In hospitality, the Best Tourism and Hospitality Experience Award resulted in a rare joint win for English Riviera Walking Tours and Jazz Hands CIC, recognising both their contribution to visitor experiences and their year-round engagement with residents and tourists.

The Best Marketing Initiative Award was also shared, with joint winners Rowcroft Hospice’s “Every Moment Matters” appeal and Superb Media, reflecting both community-driven impact and digital marketing excellence.

Food and drink excellence was recognised with the Best Food & Drink Award going to Ollie’s, praised for attention to detail, quality of offering and consistently strong customer service.

The Unsung Hero Award was presented to Shelley Oliver of Co Create Architects, recognising quiet but significant contribution behind the scenes.

The evening concluded with two major honours. The Lifetime Award for Contribution to Business was presented to Colin Matthews of Babbacombe Theatre, marking 40 years of leadership in local entertainment and his role in saving and sustaining one of Torbay’s most iconic venues.

Finally, the Overall Winner Award, sponsored by Torbay Council, was awarded to Jazz Hands CIC (Palace Theatre, Paignton). Judges praised its community impact, employee development, partnership working and strong contribution to both Paignton and the wider Bay.

As the night drew to a close, the message was clear: despite ongoing economic challenges, Torbay’s business community continues to demonstrate resilience, creativity and collaboration.

From apprentices just starting out to lifelong contributors to the Bay’s cultural fabric, the awards once again showcased a region where ambition and community spirit remain firmly at the heart of business success.