Southern Enterprise Awards 2025 Best Family-Run HGV Driving School 2025 - South East Hartlip HGV Driving School (Hartlip HGV) is more than a training provider — it’s a family-run business with a passion for helping people change their lives through professional HGV training. Offering qualifications across categories C+E, C, C1, and CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence), the school has quickly earned an outstanding reputation since its establishment in 2022... Southern Enterprise Awards 2025
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025 Phone: 01283 365204 Website: smenews.digital Sofi Parry Senior Editor No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. SME News is delighted to announce the Southern Enterprise Awards 2025! Now in its eighth year, the Southern Enterprise Awards continues to shine a spotlight on the dynamic and diverse businesses that power the South of England. This prestigious award celebrates the resilience, innovation, and excellence of enterprises across the region—championing those who drive economic growth, meet critical social needs, and help shape the South as a cornerstone of the UK economy. The Southern region stands as one of the most economically significant and socially vibrant areas of the UK. From the technology corridors of Hampshire and the financial hubs of Surrey to the thriving creative industries of Brighton and the booming tourism sector across the South Coast, this part of the country continues to evolve as a powerhouse of enterprise. The region has seen strong investment in infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and digital connectivity—laying a solid foundation for future growth and prosperity.
Contents 5. Hartlip HGV Driving School: Best Family-Run HGV Driving School 2025 - South East 6. Optimus Navis Limited: Best Superyacht Technical Consultancy 2025 – UK & Europe 8. Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing Magazine: Best Industrial Engineering Publication 2025 & Multi- Industry Media Publisher of the Year 2025 10. White & Guard: Estate Agency of the Year 2025 – Hampshire 12. Four Seasons Fruiterers: Best Catering Sector Wholesaler 2025 14. That Pond Guy: Best Pond Maintenance & Bespoke Pond Building Service 2025 - Kent 16. Charity Hive: Best Digital Fundraising & Donations Platform 2025 17. Caldere Associates Ltd: Best CRM Consultancy & Solutions Provider 2025 18. Chalk N Duster Tutors: GCSE Tuition Provider of the Year 2025 - Greater London & Best Primary to GCSE Tutoring Provider 2025 - West London 19. VIN Chip Ltd: Best Vehicle & Equipment Security Solution 2025 20. Foreman Snags Ltd: Best Surface Restoration & Innovation Company 2025 21. Fabrick Marketing Communications: Most Innovative Construction Marketing & PR Agency 2025 22. White Heat: Award for Innovative Approach to Classic Rock and International Reach 23. The Marigolds: Best Sustainable Housekeeping Company & Property Management Service 2025 – West Cornwall 24. Smart Client Ltd: Most Innovative Offshore Wind Software 2025 25. Eclipse Golf: Custom Golf Club Fitting Service of the Year 2025 – South East 26. The Winston Churchill School: Most Inspirational Learning Environment 2025 – West Sussex 27. Curly Tails: Best Animal Rescue Sanctuary & Assisted Therapy Provider 2025 28. Pyramis Solutions Ltd: Best Tech SME Financial Operations & Consultancy Services 2025 29. Mercator Digital: Most Client-Focused Digital Transformation Consultancy 2025 30. Safety Hands Plus Ltd: Best Workplace Health & Safety Consultancy 2025 – South West 31. Air4U Limited: Most Trusted Air Compressor Supplier 2025 32. ST Garage Ltd: Best Independent Garage & Diesel Particle Filter Specialist 2025 – Cambridgeshire 33. Peter Miles: Events & Tech Security Business Leader of the Year 2025 (South East): Peter Miles 34. Flourish CSR: Best ESG Consultancy 2025 35. The Peace of Mind Playlist: Mental Health Project of the Year 2025: The Peace of Mind Playlist 36. Final Touch Blinds & Shutters: Blinds & Shutters Supplier of the Year 2025 – Hampshire 37. Heads Removals & Storage: Best Commercial Removals Company 2025 – Kent 38. HFMC Wealth LTD: HNWI Wealth Planning & Investment Management Firm of the Year 2025 & Client Service Excellence Award 2025 39. J. Morgan Consulting Ltd: Best Railway Health & Safety Consultants 2025 40. White Heat Productions Limited: Award for Independent Music Production and Rock/Heavy Metal Artist Representation 41. Macey's Architectural Design & Development Ltd: Most Innovative Sustainable Architecture Practice 2025 - Wiltshire 42. Miniature Motors Ltd: Best Custom-Built Garden Room Company 2025 – South East 43. Paramount Ind-llmanhall Ltd: Best Sustainable Food Procurement Solutions 2025 45. Dapper & Suave: Best Online Men's Fashion Accessories Store 2025 46. Green Feathers: Best Wildlife Cameras & Habitats Supplier 2025 47. Wellbeing Media Studio: Best Mental Health Awareness Media Platform 2025 48. Coco & Bella Creative Design Co: Best Creative Graphic Design Studio 2025 - Hampshire 49. Idover Garage: Best Brake & Clutch Specialist 2025 – Chippenham & Best Garage Services Company 2025
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Hartlip HGV Driving School (Hartlip HGV) is more than a training provider — it’s a family-run business with a passion for helping people change their lives through professional HGV training. Offering qualifications across categories C+E, C, C1, and CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence), the school has quickly earned an outstanding reputation since its establishment in 2022. With over 20 years of experience in the HGV haulage and training industry, owner and company director Alex Roman has built an organisation recognised for integrity, transparency, and care. In just three years, Hartlip HGV has become one of Kent’s most trusted names for producing skilled, confident, and qualified HGV drivers — all through tailored courses at competitive prices. We speak to the team to discover what makes this family business a driving force for change in the South East. Best Family-Run HGV Driving School 2025 - South East Alex tells us, “Winning Best Family-Run HGV Driving School 2025 – South East is more than an award to us. It’s a reflection of every early morning, every proud student, and every belief that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when given the right support.” Today, the UK continues to face a serious shortage of qualified HGV drivers. According to the Road Haulage Association, the industry needs around 40,000 new drivers each year to meet demand. Hartlip HGV is helping to bridge that gap by training the next generation of professionals through a hands-on, caring, and individually focused approach. “We are committed to individual development and community support,” says Samantha Thomas, the company secretary. “Our goal is to help the nation meet the demand for qualified drivers while supporting each individual in achieving their personal and professional goals.” The school’s students come from all walks of life — from those upgrading existing licences to complete newcomers seeking a career change. Whether through classroom-based learning or practical on-road instruction, Hartlip HGV’s focus remains the same: delivering first-class training built on honesty, respect, and family values. Trust and transparency are the cornerstones of everything Hartlip HGV stands for. Students are never left in the dark about costs, course content, or expectations. Every student who walks through their door is treated as part of the Hartlip family, supported by instructors who bring decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. As a close-knit team, the staff share a genuine camaraderie that extends to their learners. “You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with,” says Martin, an instructor who has been with Hartlip HGV since day one. “Being part of the Hartlip family has been amazing — I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.” When hiring new instructors, the team looks for people who align with their values. “It’s a place where you’re part of a family, not just a company,” adds Del, an instructor. Samantha agrees: “Family and integrity are the foundation of everything we do — it’s vital that everyone who joins us shares that commitment.” As the business continues to grow, Hartlip HGV remains steadfast in its mission to help people and communities move forward – in their careers, in their confidence, and in life through training and opportunities. “Our business is like a family,” says Alex Roman. “We constantly review how we work to ensure we remain the school of choice for the South East — not just for our quality training, but for the supportive, family-like environment we’ve built.” Recently, the company also partnered with a local transport firm to launch an HGV Apprenticeship Programme, giving aspiring drivers a structured pathway into long-term careers. “It’s about giving people the same encouragement and guidance we’d offer our own family members,” Alex explains. Looking ahead, Alex tells us, “We’re focused on expansion, innovation, and helping even more people build secure, rewarding careers in transport and logistics. From fast-track HGV courses and affordable payment plans to advanced driver training, our vision is to make professional driver education affordable, modern, and built on trust. As we continue to grow, one thing will never change – our dedication to people. Because for us, this isn’t just about driving trucks. It’s about driving futures.” To conclude, we take a look at what some of Hartlip HGV’s customers are saying – and it seems they can’t speak highly enough of the company and its team. Stuart shares, “I’d like to thank Martin for eight days of training — the experience was calming, fun, and very enjoyable. Martin explained every manoeuvre clearly and made the process easy to understand. I wouldn’t have passed without him! Five stars all the way.” Andy F adds, “I recently completed my C+E training with Hartlip HGV and couldn’t be happier. Martin’s professionalism and knowledge stood out — he made the training both informative and fun. His patience and clarity gave me real confidence behind the wheel. If you’re looking to go from a car licence to C+E, Hartlip is the place to go!” Company name: Hartlip HGV Driving School Contact name: Samantha Thomas Email: [email protected] Website: www.hartliphgv.co.uk
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025/ 6 The demand for superyachts has reached new heights, with approximately 1,138 superyachts reported to be on order or under construction in 2025 alone. This surge has been driven by the evolving demands by a discerning clientele, who seek heightened luxury, privacy, and personality in their tailored travel plans. At the forefront of this growing market is Optimus Navis, a leading superyacht technical consultancy that has gained renown for its individualised, dedicated services. We took a closer look at Optimus Navis and its outstanding offerings below, as the consultancy is named in the Southern Enterprise Awards 2025. Based in Devon, Optimus Navis was founded in 2008 by Albert McIlroy, a forward-thinking CEO boasting extensive industry experience and qualifications in shore-based power production engineering, marine engineering, and marine surveying. Translating to “Best Vessel” in Latin, Optimus Navis was initially founded as a technical consultancy service, operating specifically within the realm of new build supervision for the superyachting industry. As the consultancy evolved, so too did its technical services—expanding to precontract negotiations, such as build contracts and build specification reviews. Today, Optimus Navis operates with the same core values that propelled its inception, comprising service, flexibility and adaptability, teamwork, communication, and integrity. These values guide its every operation, ensuring that its services remain rooted in authenticity and transparency. Serving a diverse client base from around the world, the consultancy offers an end-to-end service with assistance that spans design, construction, surveying, regulations, compliance, ownership structures, registration, finance, VAT, legal and operational, and final handover and delivery. First, the consultancy offers owner representation, serving as a single touchpoint between the client and shipyard to streamline the information and communication path, ensuring that production timelines are maintained to guarantee on-time delivery and best-in-class quality. The team’s unrivalled expertise in technical management allows Optimus Navis to manage the day-today technical requirements and system implementations across the project, including the design stage, outfitting, commissioning, and acceptance. Optimus Navis is equally experienced in interior consultancy and combines its resources with a seasoned onboard crew equipped to liaise with designers and ensure that the client’s vision is seamlessly transferred. Consolidating this varied expertise, Optimus Navis is uniquely positioned to oversee each project from conception, contract, and technical specification negotiations to design, construction, outfitting, sea trials, acceptance, and, ultimately, the delivery and final handover to the crew. Having successfully managed more than 20 projects, each ranging from 30 to more than 70 metres in size, Optimus Navis stands as a recognised leader in the yachting sector. These include a series of Tankoa Yachts, Rossinavi, and Maiora projects and a number of custom vessels, reaching up to 117 metres in size. Each project has been undertaken with an unwavering focus on timely delivery and the most meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every client’s vision is successfully brought to life upon project completion. Since its inception, Optimus Navis has demonstrated unrivalled commitment, communication, and consistency. Driven by a desire to deliver exceptional client service, the consultancy recognises the importance of ensuring that each project is enjoyable, seamless, and entirely aligned with the client’s unique requirements. To ensure that each vision and request has been translated correctly and clearly to the shipbuilder, the Optimus Navis team maintains complete cohesion between the builder and its client’s team, ultimately ensuring a stress-free and rewarding construction experience for each client it serves. This dedication is shaped by the consultancy’s core values: through service, the highest standards of professionalism and service are maintained throughout; flexibility and adaptability ensures that, when faced with the unexpected, the team can adjust and reposition with ease; through teamwork, the consultancy makes positive contributions towards professional wellbeing, alignment, and growth; communication propels the team to understand and exchange information in a timely manner, encouraging positive interaction with colleagues and clients alike; and integrity ensures that transparency, confidentiality, respect, and honour are maintained across all operations. Of course, these values could not be upheld without the remarkable team behind Optimus Navis. The consultancy is steered by Albert McIlroy, its Founder, CEO, Project Director, and Superintendent. Albert is joined by Finance Director, Miles Smith, who is responsible for all financial matters across Optimus Navis. Finally, Angela Pinelli is the consultancy’s Marketing Best Superyacht Technical Consultancy 2025 – UK & Europe
Manager, Personal Assistant, and Italian Translator. She holds many responsibilities within the consultancy, including all marketing endeavours, providing Albert with assistance, and translating English and Italian as required. Together, these three individuals make a formidable team, boasting a diverse array of strengths that, combined, empower Optimus Navis to thrive. While Optimus Navis operates as a well-oiled ship, the journey has not always been easy. Founder Albert McIlroy told us: “Managing a team and promoting teamwork is not straightforward. There is no set approach; for me, the team is a dynamic, changing element of the consultancy. It can also be compounded by many factors, such as varying levels of language understanding and translation skills, level of technical understanding, or not understanding the explanations and geographical influences.” As CEO and Project Director, Albert aims to mitigate these potential challenges by working towards four types of culture types, as identified by Robert E. Quinn and Kim S. Cameron in 1993: hierarchy, clan, adhocracy, and market. These cultures are a quintessential aspect of Optimus Navis’ overall organisational management, providing both Albert and his team with a clear, actionable structure that eliminates friction and inefficiency across the consultancy. As a controlling orientation, Albert believes that “hierarchy culture” is fundamental to any consultancy’s success. This culture type reflects the understanding that successful leaders are viewed as organisers, coordinators, and monitors. By embodying this approach, Albert ensures that the team does not view upper management as a negative and instead embraces discussions and shares concerns and information so that, collectively, the team can find the best way forward—together. Across Optimus Navis, Albert emphasises the “clan culture” within the team, which promotes teamwork, extended family, mentoring, and loyalty. Grounded in human development and participation, this collaborative culture orientation allows Albert to foster a friendly working environment within Optimus Navis, instilling high morale to facilitate consensus and feedback among employees, in turn leading to heightened levels of participation and loyalty. The creative orientation of “adhocracy culture” emphasises innovativeness, vision, and new resources, suggesting that successful leaders are viewed as innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. This culture encourages the team to think of themselves as part of a creative and dynamic industry, promoting individual initiative and empowering employees to bring their ideas to the group for discussion so that the team can make smart, informed decisions on how to proceed. Finally, “market culture” is a competing orientation and defines success in terms of market share and penetration. Albert utilises this culture approach to ensure that the team remain results-oriented— taking the greatest care to study situations, being aware of their own professional and personal limits, understanding and controlling production schedules, providing reports and statuses in a timely manner, and achieving measurable goals and targets. “The ultimate goal is to complete our work and the project at the highest level possible,” he explained. By taking this four-pronged approach, the consultancy has been successful in building a cohesive, well-rounded team, each individual empowered to exceed expectations and achieve excellence. The team is driven to succeed, continually educating themselves with emerging technologies and trends to ensure that Optimus Navis remains aligned with industry evolution. Optimus Navis has achieved an excellent reputation as technical consultants through many hours dedicated to researching, exploring, and implementing what is in the realm of reality—transforming design concepts into complete, working entities. Staying ahead of industry advancement has enabled Optimus Navis to witness year-onyear growth in the new build superyacht industry. This growth has been driven by a number of factors, including a rising sense of adventure across the industry that has led superyacht owners to explore more remote areas. As a result, an increasing volume of superyachts are now being customised with specific systems and equipment designed for exploratory purposes. Alongside this, there have also been incredible advancements in new eco-friendly sustainability technologies. The industry has seen developments towards alternative fuel propulsion and power generation systems, with increased efficiencies fuelled by the ideology of reducing undesirable effects on the environment. These advancements promise significant transformation across the superyacht industry, opening the door to countless opportunities for Optimus Navis to explore. Looking to the future, Optimus Navis is focused on advancement. The remainder of 2025 appears promising to the consultancy as it wraps up early discussions for new projects, which are set to be finalised by the beginning of 2026. Alongside the new additions to its portfolio, Optimus Navis will be setting its sights on new horizons, with the aim to expand its geographical area into Northern Europe, Italy, and Turkey. Beyond that, the Optimus Navis will continue to set new standards of service and quality across the wider superyacht industry, demonstrating its rightful recognition as the UK and Europe’s Best Superyacht Technical Consultancy 2025. Contact: Albert McIlroy Company: Optimus Navis Limited Web Address: www.optimusnavis.com
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025/ 8 For over 20 years, PECM Magazine has stood at the forefront of the industry as the UK’s leading industrial engineering publication, delivering expert insights, news, and innovations for professionals in the process engineering, control, and manufacturing sectors. Serving cutting-edge analysis, the latest product reviews, and real-world studies to a global audience, PECM Magazine is committed to empowering engineers, managers, and decision-makers with information that supports operational excellence and innovation across various sectors, including automation, sustainable manufacturing, and digital transformation. Boasting more than 300,000 global readers, PECM Magazine provides a trusted platform for both industry leaders and emerging companies. It is widely read by a diverse clientele from around the world, such as engineers, plant managers, technical directors, and innovators, as well as reaching professionals in industries that include food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, biotechnology, chemicals, and all major manufacturing units. At its core, the publication aims to establish itself as the most trusted and comprehensive source of information for the process engineering, control, and manufacturing sectors, supporting the continuous growth of its readers and advertisers. To this end, PECM Magazine provides a wide range of offerings to its readers, including comprehensive industry news coverage and regulatory updates; in-depth features and expert analysis on current and emerging trends; detailed product reviews and technology insights; real-world case studies that show best practices and innovations; exclusive coverage of major events, conferences, and trade shows; and access to special reports and white papers. It strives to foster industry growth, promote knowledge sharing, and support professionals in navigating the evolving landscape of process engineering, control, and manufacturing. In a saturated market, this is precisely what enables PECM Magazine to stand out: its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, expertly curated content that empowers process engineering, control, and manufacturing professionals to stay at the forefront of industry innovation. The publication combines expert editorial leadership with direct industry engagement to provide content that is both authoritative and forwardthinking, making PECM Magazine the trusted resource for professionals aiming to stay on trend and build lasting success within their sector. This commitment shines through in the publication’s offerings, specifically its deep expert analysis and dedication to providing upto-the-minute industry news; its usage of comprehensive real-world case studies that showcase successful technology implementations and operational excellence; and its emphasis on authenticity, demonstrated through unbiased product reviews, insightful technology coverage, and direct interviews with industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers. Together, these elements solidify PECM Magazine’s position as the definitive resource for professionals seeking clarity, innovation, and leadership. It is one thing to stand out in a crowded field, but PECM Magazine understands that staying ahead of the curve is something else entirely. Relying on an experienced editorial team who are actively engaged with current trends and emerging technologies, the publication provides readers with privileged access to new developments and information on the most impactful industry events—covering innovative solutions, major industry events, and exclusive interviews with top decision-makers, alongside continuously producing special reports and white papers on critical issues such as AI, advanced process control, and sustainable manufacturing. The process engineering, control, and manufacturing industry is constantly evolving, shaped by rapid technological advancements, shifting regulations, and an increasing demand for efficiency and sustainability. These changes challenge professionals to stay informed, agile, and aligned with emerging trends. Helping to make this complex task achievable is Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing (PECM) Magazine, the world’s leading publication delivering cutting-edge content that empowers professionals and businesses across the globe. We took a closer look at the magazine and its standout offerings below. Best Industrial Engineering Publication 2025 & MultiIndustry Media Publisher of the Year 2025
To remain ahead of industry advancements, PECM Magazine continually monitors both the regional and global markets. It regularly covers major infrastructure investments and manufacturing advancements in the South of England and across the UK. Its most notable observations include a number of expansion projects across local manufacturing sites; regional innovation showcased at events like PPMA Total Show and Advanced Engineering 2025, with keynote speakers and product launches that represent the South’s thriving industry; and case-studies from country-level manufacturers and technology providers, including automation system upgrades, energy management projects, and sustainable transformation in local businesses. On a global scale, the process engineering and manufacturing sector is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by automation, sustainability, and advanced materials. PECM Magazine has noted several trends shaping the industry in 2025, including next-generation energy storage, new automation models, green manufacturing methods, and digital innovation. These developments reflect a broader shift toward smarter, safer, and more sustainable operations—trends that PECM Magazine continues to spotlight through expert editorial coverage, case studies, and exclusive interviews. In particular, the magazine has observed a growing emphasis on smart automation, robotics, and digital transformation as manufacturers seek to enhance efficiency and remain competitive. Sustainability remains a top priority, with companies adopting eco-friendly materials, energysaving processes, and circular heat recovery systems to meet both environmental and regulatory goals. Advances in energy storage, such as superdielectrics and next-gen battery technologies, are offering safer and more resilient power solutions. At the same time, investment in workforce upskilling through partnerships with training providers is helping to future-proof technical capabilities. Enhanced safety equipment and intelligent monitoring systems are also playing a key role in improving compliance and operational security across high-risk environments. This dedication to staying ahead is driven by an editorial team that strives to deliver accurate, engaging, and timely information to PECM Magazine’s readers. The publication’s internal culture is built on clear communication, defined roles, and a shared commitment to quality content and industry relevance. PECM Magazine leads this team by fostering openness, respect, and progressional growth, encouraging team members to share ideas, provide constructive feedback, and remain curious about emerging industry events. This inclusive culture nurtures innovation and mutual support, ensuring the magazine consistently produces top-quality content. When expanding the team, PECM Magazine focuses on recruiting individuals with deep industry knowledge, strong editorial skills, and a passion for high-quality journalism. The publication seeks diverse talent who can contribute fresh perspectives and uphold its unwavering standards of accuracy and professionalism. Upon being selected, new team members undergo thorough onboarding and mentorship to ensure they integrate seamlessly and align with PECM Magazine’s overarching mission and values. This enables the publication to maintain a dynamic, expert editorial team that continues to be a leading resource in the engineering and manufacturing sector. PECM Magazine’s exceptional editorial team continues to drive the publication to new heights of innovation excellence. For the remainder of 2025 and beyond, PECM Magazine will focus on delivering the latest insights, innovations, and practical solutions that are making waves in the fields of process engineering, control, and manufacturing. Key upcoming projects for the publication will include the coverage of groundbreaking technologies, such as next-generation energy storage using superdielectrics, advances in automation, and innovative approaches to sustainable manufacturing. In the longer-term, PECM Magazine intends to expand its editorial reach through the circulation of additional special reports and white papers on critical topics such as the impact of artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, and renewable technologies. This expansion aligns with the publication’s rising digital circulation and deepening subscriber engagement, reinforcing its role as the trusted resource for professionals navigating the complexities of an evolving industrial landscape. Ultimately, PECM Magazine remains dedicated to supporting the engineering and manufacturing communities by staying ahead of the curve and delivering content that drives the industry forward in 2025 and beyond. Through its commitment to innovation, expert insight, and practical relevance, the publication continues to empower professionals across the sector—earning itself well-deserved recognition in the Southern Enterprise Awards 2025, with the prestigious titles of Best Industrial Engineering Publication 2025 and Multi-Industry Media Publisher of the Year 2025. Contact: Jake Page Company: Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing Magazine Web Address: www.pecm.co.uk
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025/ 10 Estate Agency of the Year 2025 – Hampshire Founded in 2006 by the duo of Steve White and Jason Guard, the eponymous White & Guard estate agents today comprises four branches in Hampshire – one in each of Bishop’s Waltham, Fair Oak, Hedge End, and Bitterne, respectively – and has carved out a name for itself as one of the UK’s leading agencies. Blending experience with a real focus on results, White & Guard’s team of more than 30 talented individuals offer a stellar range of properties across their sales and lettings divisions. On the back of its recognition with this award, we caught up with Jason for more on its work. Whether a client is looking to sell their current home, find their next one, or track down the perfect rental for their particular needs, White & Guard can help. Going beyond just property and matching its clients to dream locations that fit their lifestyles, the agency boasts the widest range of properties in the area, as well as a team committed to filling each of them with the right individual, couple, or family. There is an important distinction between a house and a home, and this is something White & Guard helps every client to realise. This is something that Steve and Jason – both former directors of corporate agencies within the real estate industry – were passionate about since day one, when they put their heads together and opened the first White & Guard office in the former village police station in Bishop’s Waltham. The knowledge these business partners had of how to operate a business in this space and do things differently ensured that their company would stand out from the competition and create impact, both of which it has been doing for nearly 20 years. “White & Guard is a community of property professionals that provide the very best standards and are prepared to prove it.” – Phil Spencer Opening its second office in 2009, this time in Hedge End, White & Guard was quickly having to meet the demand of a client base that was developing rapidly, with it now attracting the homes of property owners across the region and beyond. Team expansions would then take up much of the next few years, with the company’s ongoing evolution helping it to establish itself as one of the most comprehensive local businesses around, one that takes pride in what does and which is ingrained within the community that it serves so well. By the time it opened offices three and four in 2021, White & Guard was a revered name in this part of Hampshire, and these new locations in Bitterne and Fair Oak brought further opportunities for the company to expand and secure new clients. At the same time, White & Guard was starting to see an increase in return clients who were either upsizing, downsizing, or buying a second property on the coast. Things brings us to the present, with the company’s new website recently launching to coincide with its upcoming 20th anniversary. Having explored a bit about the history of this leading, forwardthinking estate agency, it is time to really get stuck into what makes White & Guard such a standout in this region. First and foremost is its aforementioned team, with a choice selection of the most dedicated and capable individuals in this industry being spread across its four offices. Staff are picked by hand for both their local insights and property knowledge, and the culture running through the company goes beyond clinching a deal – it is about aspiring for happiness. Another key differentiator is in the way that White & Guard promotes its properties, with its video work in particular being something that clients adore and which gains massive traction when it comes to views and generating sales. Often, these start with an exterior drone shot, before the drone flies towards the door, which will swing open to reveal inside. From here, its Giraffe 360 camera takes over, with a comprehensive property tour complete with a 360-degree, non-fisheye walkthrough that captures every detail in stunning depth. “Of course, vendors love it when they see the final video, but just as importantly it helps create a lot of interest, leading to viewings and, in turn, sales. This, amongst several other initiatives, ensures that we both stand out and are as far removed from the competition as possible.” Further bolstering White & Guard’s standing is the fact that it has been a partner with the Relocation Agent Network since shortly after opening its doors, having enjoyed the perks membership to the UK’s premier relocation brings to the full over the years – even during the challenging times brought about as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This same year, White & Guard also continued its impressive streak of outstanding client feedback and receiving a number of industry awards, both of which are huge sources of pride. The streak continues to this day, and as Jason explained to us: “Each and every one of the awards that we won last year, the year before, and so on mean so very much to us. They show the high standards we adhere to here White & Guard, as well as underpinning just how much we all love what we do.” He continued: “Winning this 2025 Southern Enterprise Award 2025 is incredible. It is something we cherish and will sing about from the rooftops!” Of course, it is not all about awards for White & Guard, which instead revels in the fact that it is making a real difference in the lives of people throughout Hampshire, helping them to find the right property for them whilst also shining a spotlight on the area through the advice and stories it shares through its online journal. Its dedication to both the county and its people makes White & Guard Hampshire’s leading estate agent, and it is our pleasure to join the many who have championed it by naming it as such in this programme. For more information on White & Guard’s services and branches, simply follow the link below to the company website, or visit its pages on Facebook or Instagram. Company: White & Guard Web Address: https://www.whiteandguard.com
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025/ 12 Behind our favourite pubs, restaurants, and caterers – as well as other locations where food is regularly served, like farm shops, coffee shops and care homes – there are wholesalers, the companies that deliver the fresh, high-quality ingredients that chefs and cooks across the country turn into tasty dishes. Four Seasons Fruiterers in Wiltshire is one of the UK’s best, an award-winning, market-leading wholesaler serving a diverse clientele across the wider food service industry. Paul Kurnyta, Head of Marketing, was on hand to tell us more about its work in this space. Guided by an unwavering commitment to quality across its wide range of produce, pantry goods, meat, dairy, chilled/frozen items, bakery delights, and speciality items, Four Seasons Fruiterers supplies some of the finest establishments across the South of the UK with the items they need to conjure up culinary excellence in their kitchens. Be it a charming café, a bustling restaurant, or a reputable hotel, the company boasts customers from across the range of food services, serving as a trusted partner to them all. “What sets us apart is our steadfast commitment to sourcing the very best produce”, Paul told us. “Each day, we receive deliveries of the finest fruits and vegetables, carefully selected from the highest-quality growers throughout the UK. Our sourcing strategy is complemented by imports from international cultivators and bolstered by weekly shipments from the iconic Milan and French markets, ensuring our customers have access to exceptional produce from around the globe.” Of course, this is just the beginning. Complementing its array of fresh produce is an equally impressive selection of dry and pantry goods, which are also sourced from leading UK producers and a choice selection of the best international suppliers from all corners of the map. The result is that Four Seasons Fruiterers is simply unrivalled when it comes to both the range and the quality of food on offer, and this has proven fundamental to the growth of the brand since it began 2013. Despite this rapid and ongoing development, Four Seasons Fruiterers has remained dedicated to its mission and values since day one, with the former revolving around this idea of being the best, most reputable food wholesaler in the UK and the latter comprising a system based around honesty, loyalty, community involvement, resilience, and adaptability. What follows is a positive, ethics-driven business culture, leading to customer and employee loyalty and, in turn, a stellar reputation paired with long-term success. For Paul, this starts with the family-run nature of the company, with these principles underpinning every element of this operation. The family behind Four Seasons Fruiterers share more than three decades of experience in the food industry, previously operating a number of local Italian restaurants in Oxfordshire. Coming into this environment with a real insight into the challenges people face has proven key in it developing effective solutions. Just one example of a difficulty Four Seasons Fruiterers has helped its customers to overcome is sustainability. Everybody seeks sustainable practice and sustainable partners, but this is easier said than done when it comes to sourcing produce and other such goods from all over the world. Luckily, customers can rest easy with Four Seasons Fruiterers on their side, as the company continues to streamline its operation and better itself by operating sustainably. Its initiatives in this vein are as innovative as they are robust. Exploring these in more detail, first and foremost is the company’s pledge to purchase as much seasonal fruit and veg as it possibly can from local farms and UK suppliers. Not only does this help keep transportation and storage costs down, it also leads to fresh, high-quality produce reflective of the remarkable variety Britian has to offer. When it does import selected goods that cannot be grown in the UK, Four Seasons Fruiterers always does so in the most sustainable way possible, partnering with those providers that share its aims. Moreover, on the occasions where its fresh produce has past its best, it is offered to staff or other local businesses that have a use for it, helping to reduce food waste. This same mindset has fuelled the reduction in packaging carried out across the brand over the past few years, with the team here working closely with their supplier network to ensure that – where possible – its deliveries arrive unpackaged, again cutting down on waste. For the past few years, Four Seasons Fruiterers has also been utilising reusable, biodegradable, and recyclable boxes for its own deliveries. Once the boxes are finished with, customers leave them out in time for their next delivery from the company, which will collect and re-use them, before they are finally recycled. These deliveries also take place in fuel-efficient, Euro 6-compliant vehicles, further demonstrating this commitment. “Sustainability is about living and doing business within the means of the natural world. At Four Seasons Fruiterers, this isn’t something we’ve added in as we’ve grown – sustainability is something that has remained at the heart of what we do since the day we opened our doors.” It is thanks to this that Four Seasons Fruiterers has secured some truly impressive names as brand ambassadors, including the world-famous Marco Pierre White – the youngest chef to achieve three Michelin stars and the man who helped train Gordon Ramsay – who appears frequently across the company’s YouTube channel. Commenting on his relationship with the brand, Marco said: “I use Four Seasons Fruiterers for my fruit and veg. Why? Because they’re the best.” Such praise truly underpins what makes the company special. Recognised as the Best Catering Sector Wholesaler 2025, there is nobody better than Best Catering Sector Wholesaler 2025
Four Seasons Fruiterers for bulk purchasing across the UK supply chain, with this supplier of food goods balancing quality with sustainability to empower its clients to serve the tastiest, best quality food they can. After four generations, this is something that is in the company’s blood, and as it continues to grow and evolve – enhancing both its product range and its service levels – Four Seasons Fruiterers remains the embodiment of exceptional. With Christmas 2025 rapidly approaching, there is no better time than the present to explore the full range of items available from Four Seasons Fruiterers, including those from such leading brands as The Food Heros, Hobbs House Bakery, Dolcetti Ice Cream Company, Essential Cuisine and True Foods. More about this holiday selection, as well as the other products lining the brand’s immense portfolio, can be found at the link listed below. Contact: Paul Kurnyta Company: Four Seasons Fruiterers Web Address: https://www.fsfruit.co.uk/
Southern Enterprise Awards 2025/ 14 The That Pond Guy story begins with Matthew’s construction of his own koi pond, and he soon spun his passion into a professional service that locals have come to rely on to keep their ponds in tip-top condition. Matthew says, “The mission is simple. Give people a pond that works and looks great and make the whole experience easy and stress-free. We treat every job like we’re working on our own garden, and the results speak for themselves. “The vision has always been to do things properly. No shortcuts. Just honest, professional work that gives people a pond they can be proud of. We’ve now built up over 400 five-star reviews, and as far as I know, we are the highest-rated pond company in the UK. That is something I’m extremely proud of.” Whether the customer is looking for professional pond construction, a thorough clean, or even specialist fibreglassing to waterproof water and protect it from UV rays, temperature changes, and everyday wear and tear, That Pond Guy can tailor its offering to their specific needs to result in a pond that is both pristine and healthy. The company can supply quality pond equipment, too, and its fibreglassing services are even available for swimming pools. Matthew tries to stay involved in most jobs where he can, especially the more technical ones, however, he admits that it is getting harder as the business continues to grow. That isn’t a problem, though, as he has built a solid team around him. Every member of the That Pond Guy team understands the high standard of work that is expected and they enjoy putting their best effort into each project. That Pond Guy is all about honesty, reliability, and completing the job to a high standard. As Matthew says, “No drama, no excuses. We turn up, we get it done, and we leave the customer happy. That’s always been the goal, and it always will be.” Matthew and the team take pride in the level of care they provide for each job, from the first point of contact to the last bucket of water; in everything they do, they are professional, they provide clear communication, and they genuinely want to do a good job. That’s why That Pond Guy receives so much repeat custom and so many glowing personal recommendations. “We’re not interested in selling people things they don’t need,” states Matthew. “We give honest advice, explain things clearly, and make sure the pond is left better than we found it. That’s what people want – someone they can trust. And that’s what we focus on.” That Pond Guy is a small pond care company based in Kent, providing cleaning, maintenance, and building of beautiful bespoke ponds for customers across Kent, London, and surrounding areas. Its team deal with everything from small garden ponds to large koi ponds to estate lakes for customers such as private homeowners, schools, councils, golf courses, and commercial estates. As That Pond Guy celebrates success within the Southern Enterprise Awards 2025, we sit down for a chat with Founder, Matthew Adlington. Best Pond Maintenance & Bespoke Pond Building Service 2025 - Kent
“Everything we’ve built has been through word of mouth and reputation. We haven’t paid for reviews or run big ad campaigns – we've just done good work and let that speak for itself. With over 400 verified five-star reviews and now being a Which? Trusted Trader, we feel we’ve earned people’s trust. We don’t take that for granted and it’s something we work hard to maintain every single day.” So, what is one of the biggest trends in the world of ponds right now? Matthew tells us about the increase in people wanting dedicated koi ponds, especially formal raised builds with large glass viewing windows, being one of the company’s most popular services by far. He explains that people are looking for something impressive yet practical – and these types of ponds tick both boxes. “Customers are realising that they can have a proper showpiece garden that still runs efficiently and is easy to maintain,” he notes. “It’s not just about keeping fish anymore – it's about creating a space they can enjoy every day. In Kent and the surrounding counties, these ponds are being asked for more and more. We’re also seeing strong interest in wildlife ponds and natural water features, but the formal koi ponds with glass fronts are definitely the standout trend right now.” One customer, Linda shares her experience of having a pond built: “I decided to completely redesign my garden and wanted to incorporate a koi pond. Matt chatted with me about what I had in mind for my garden and made suggestions as to different ways of how it could look. He advised me about the design and materials I could use so it would be suitable for koi. We agreed on a design, and he constructed the pond and filtration, advised me on plants, then planted it up. I was so happy with it when it was completed that I decided I wanted a similar one built a bit higher adjacent to the first one and have a water blade waterfall to connect them. They look stunning!” Mick, who also had a koi pond built, shares, “Matt helped me design and build my pond and water feature at the rear of my garden. He worked from a very rough sketch and an idea I had floating about in my head. The finished article was so much more than what I expected, and he has helped build a very happy space where I spend much of my free time. Since the pond was finished, if I had any other issues, Matt was always there to help and advise me. A quick message via WhatsApp and a reply is soon received. His knowledge on all fish and pond matters is exceptional. I would highly recommend him.” Indeed, That Pond Guy’s customers really couldn’t be happier, and now, we are keen to find out what’s next for the company. Matthew reveals that 2025 is almost fully booked with pond cleaning and maintenance work, and it is now taking build bookings into spring 2026. “Demand has been amazing and we’re really grateful for that,” he comments. He goes on to say, “We’ve just completed work on a full demo garden at our base, which showcases our koi ponds, fibreglass work, and filter systems, but also shows that we build swimming pools, too. That side of the business is something we’re excited to grow. We’re also working closely with a trusted landscaper and a garden architect, so now, we’re able to offer full garden transformations, not just the pond. Customers like the fact that we can handle everything from start to finish and take full ownership of the space.” If you would like more information or would like to hire That Pond Guy’s services, please visit the company website or reach out via email. Contact Details Company name: That Pond Guy Contact name: Matthew Adlington Website: www.thatpondguy.co.uk
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