2026 Tonbridge Business Awards Finalists Announced and Celebrated

Excitement is building across Tonbridge as the finalists for the annual Tonbridge Business Awards have been officially announced. Organised by The TN Awards Company, the event highlights the incredible achievements of independent businesses, organisations, and individuals who shape our local economy and vibrant community character.

The glittering 2026 awards ceremony is set to take place at the EM Forster Theatre on Thursday, 25 June, where local leaders will gather to celebrate this year’s shortlisted nominees. Ahead of the big night, we take a look at the 12 competitive categories, exploring what each business does alongside a nod to the prestigious former winners from 2025.

*Sponsors for the TN Business Awards 2026*

1./ New Business

This category celebrates courageous start-ups that have been operating for less than two years across the local region, driving innovation on our high streets and online markets.

2025 Winner: The Market House | Sponsor: CooperBurnett

2/ Food & Drink

Recognising excellence across the local hospitality sector, this award honours outstanding food and drink producers, cafes, bars, and restaurants delivering exceptional flavours and service.

2025 Winner: Ben’s Kitchen | Sponsor: Clarke Williams

3/ Retail

This award highlights exceptional retail experiences, shining a spotlight on physical high street shops and innovative online boutique platforms that keep our shopping districts distinct and customer-focused.

2025 Winner: Karen Alexandra Beauty & Wellbeing | Sponsor: DMD Restaurants

4/ Creative

From stunning art collectives and design studios to dynamic media agencies, this category honours master storytellers who bring unique visual flare and communication excellence to Tonbridge.

2025 Winner: Imogen Partridge Illustration and Design | Sponsor: Stragbrook

5/ Health & Wellbeing

This category acknowledges vital excellence across healthcare, physical fitness, and mental wellbeing services, honoring those who work tirelessly to keep the mind and body of our community healthy.

2025 Winner: Ismini Studios | Sponsor: Emma Coleman Skin

6/ Hair & Beauty

Recognising the finest talents in the local beauty industry, this award covers everything from established high street salons to independent practitioners praised for their stellar cosmetic expertise.

2025 Winner: Laserday | Presenter: TMBC

7/ Micro Business

Dedicated to solo entrepreneurs and small two-person teams, this category honours microscopic operations achieving monumental success and making a significant economic impact.

Sponsor: Get Ahead VA

8/ Small Business

This award is designed for small but mighty companies employing between 3 and 19 staff members who demonstrate exceptional performance, business growth, and robust team ethics.

2025 Winner: Tonbridge Garage | Sponsor: Berry & Lamberts

9/ Large Business

Honouring thriving corporations with 20 or more employees, this category highlights major local employers showing strong market growth, community impact, and sustainable scaling.

2025 Winner: CHS Networks Limited | Sponsor: HR Dept West Kent

10/ Businessperson

This individual award celebrates singular business leaders who demonstrate outstanding entrepreneurial skills, vision, and dedication in steering their companies through changing economic tides.

Dr Cara James
Craig Alexander
David Coleman
James Simpson
Jamie Cutts
Simon Welham
Tracy Weiner

Sponsor: GFHR Consulting

11/ Businesswoman

Specifically recognizing women who have made an outstanding contribution to the Tonbridge business landscape, this category celebrates female leadership, mentorship, and commercial drive.

Beau Yeung
Caroline Welsh
Dr Diana Goldsmith
Dr Iram Shiekh
Jo Parker Tester
Sandhya Iyer
Shannon Brazier

Sponsor: Dee Airey

12/ Changemaker

This crucial category recognizes businesses and organisations that prioritise making a positive social or environmental impact through sustainability, charity partnerships, and community support.

2025 Winner: Fuggles Bear Café | Sponsor: Sevenoaks District Chamber of Commerce

Tickets are selling fast for the live awards presentation evening at the EM Forster Theatre this June. To secure your place at the town’s biggest celebration of independent business, you can purchase tickets directly via Ticket Tailor.

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