Are you aware of a business, service, employer or entrepreneur that deserves special recognition for their achievements, approach or attitude over the past year? Are you proud of the achievements of your own business? If so, get your entries in for the Rochford District Business Awards 2026.
The Rochford District Business Awards is hosted by Rochford District Council, in association with Toomey Motor Group, to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our fantastic business community over the last 12 months.
This year, the Council has changed some categories to be more inclusive and celebrate even more businesses across a diverse range of sectors and sizes, including awards for Excellence in Employee Experience, Future-Ready Start-Up, Social Value and Circular Economy. Finalists in the Customer Experience Excellence category will be chosen by judges and open to the public vote to decide the winner.
Brand new for the 2026 awards, is the category of ‘Sector Champion’. The category will rotate each year to spotlight key local industries. For 2026, the Council has chosen the Personal Services sector in retail. Businesses such as barbershops, hairdressers, salons, personal trainers, tattoo artists and massage clinics are encouraged to enter.
Councillor Daniel Efde, Rochford District Council's Chair of the Economic Development, Regeneration and Tourism Committee said: “The Rochford District Business Awards shine a spotlight on the innovation, dedication and resilience of our local businesses. We’re proud to celebrate those who go above and beyond, inspiring others and driving our business community forward. We hope that introducing new categories will give even more businesses an opportunity to enter for 2026.”
See the full list of award categories and enter online.
The closing date for entries is 5pm on Monday 5 January 2026.
The Awards will be presented at our ceremony on the evening of Thursday 12 March 2026 at Saxon Hall, Rochford