by Maddy Dixon
LCCI’s SME London Business Awards returned earlier this year to showcase the hard work, ingenuity and innovation of small and medium enterprises in London in an ever-changing economic and political landscape. With over 300 guests in attendance, the black-tie awards at Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge were a night of celebration and inspiration.
Crowned
Firms of up to 250 employees had been invited to enter 22 different categories, ranging from best website to best young business leader, businesswomen of the year and service excellence, with the chance of winning gold or silver in their chosen category and the potential to be crowned as overall winner of the SME London Business Awards 2025.
The finalists, sponsors and guests enjoyed a flowing drinks reception, red carpet interviews, a three-course meal and a musical medley from Encore Entertainment before the awards ceremony commenced, hosted by TV presenter and sports reporter James Green.
Prosperity
LCCI chief executive Karim Fatehi OBE opened the proceedings, remarking on the great contribution SMEs provide to the UK’s growth and prosperity, showing determination and innovation during the pandemic, rising business costs and global uncertainty.
Technology services provider Penta Consulting were crowned the overall winner and will now proceed to the national finals at QEII Centre, Westminster in November with the chance of gaining the title of Britain’s best small business.
Mutual support
Beyond the awards themselves, the event served as a vital networking opportunity. Entrepreneurs exchanged ideas, formed potential partnerships and explored collaborations. The sense of community among attendees was palpable, reinforcing the notion that SMEs, often operating in isolation, can thrive through mutual support and shared knowledge.
Maddy Dixon is social media and content executive at LCCI
For the full list of Gold and Silver winners, see: www.londonchamber.co.uk/events/events/sme-london-business-awards
Thanks are due to the following without which the event could not have the success it undoubtedly was.
SME London Business Awards Headline Sponsors
HSBC
SSE Energy Solutions
South Western Railway
Platinum Sponsor
Menzies LLP
Gold Sponsors
Aramex
Birketts LLP
City of London Corporation
Edwin Coe LLP
Fora
Lefebvre
Lenovo Pro
Drinks Reception Sponsor
ZipCar
Unlocking potential
The event raised money for The Diana Award as its Charity Sponsor this year. This award was set up in memory of the late Diana, Princess of Wales and her belief that young people have the power to change the world. Their mission is to empower young people to lead that change through a range of initiatives that unlock their potential, inspire action, and create opportunities, ensuring that no young person is left out or left behind.
www.diana-award.org.uk
