UK Enterprise Awards 2026 Best Boutique Wellness & Beauty Salon 2026 – East Yorkshire After spending three decades working in overseas travel, Katrina Atkinson made the decision to completely retrain and follow a new dream – this time in the beauty and wellness sector. Working out of a salon in her garden in Hull, Top Kat Wellness has, through word of mouth, loyalty, and tremendous client experiences, blossomed into one of Yorkshire’s leading locations for beauty and wellness. We caught up with Katrina following her success on the cover of our UK Enterprise Awards 2026.
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UK Enterprise Awards 2026 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 proud to announce the launch of the UK Enterprise Awards 2026, a programme celebrating ambition, resilience, and outstanding achievement across the UK’s vast business landscape. From fast-growing start-ups and family-run enterprises to established SMEs, these awards recognise the organisations and leaders setting new benchmarks for success across a wide range of industries. Championing Progress in UK Enterprise Across the UK, businesses of all sizes are adapting to new market opportunities, technological advances, and evolving customer demands. SMEs and entrepreneurial ventures are at the heart of this growth – driving innovation, creating jobs, and delivering products and services that shape the national economy. In 2025, digital adoption, sustainability initiatives, and international trade expansion are key drivers of performance, enabling businesses to compete on both a national and global stage. Leaders who combine strategic vision with operational excellence are setting the standard for resilience and long-term impact. The UK Enterprise Awards 2026 celebrate these trailblazing organisations and executives – those transforming their industries, inspiring their teams, and contributing to a stronger, more innovative business landscape throughout the UK.
Contents 9. Top Kat Wellnes: Best Boutique Wellness & Beauty Salon 2026 – East Yorkshire 10. First Plumb Solutions Ltd: Plumbing Specialists of the Year 2026 - Kirkcaldy 12. CPH Retrofit: Best Whole-House Retrofit Delivery Specialists 2026 14. Unspoken Signals: Best Behavioural Intelligence Consultancy 2026 & Workplace Communication & Culture Transformation Excellence Award 2026 16. PR Scully & Co Solicitors: Best Personal Injury Law Firm 2026 – North West England 18. The Olive Oil Co: Best Specialist Artisan Olive Oil Sourcing 2026 – London & Premium Small-Producer Food Import Excellence Award 2026 20. Chlikk Co-Parenting: Most Innovative Co-Parenting App 2026 22. Smart Solutions 365: Best Spray Foam Removal Company 2026 & Client Service Excellence Award 2026 24. NZC Solutions: Construction Tech Company of the Year 2026 & Excellence Award for Carbon Management & Reporting Services 2026 26. Cotswold Cottage Holidays: Best Pet-Friendly Holiday Cottage Collection 2026 - Cotswolds 28. Genren UK Ltd: Most Innovative Integrated Renewable Energy Systems 2026 – Shropshire & Smart Energy Management Innovation Award 2026 30. Swedencare: Best Premium Companion Animal Health Company 2026 32. Four Seasons Fruiterers: Best Family-Run Foodservice Wholesaler 2026 34. Masonic Housing Association – Wilson Keys Court: Affordable Housing Provider of the Year 2026 - Staffordshire 36. Boland Marine Ltd: Best Emerging Marine Services Company 2026 - Hampshire 38. The Engineering Quest: Best Precision Engineering Manufacturing Supplier 2026 49. Gill Pharmaceuticals: Best Global Aesthetics Brand 2026 40. Crews Private Hire Service: Best Private Transport Hire Service 2026 – Kent 41. Kit4Trips Ltd: Outdoor Adventure Innovator of the Year 2026 42. Priority Male: Male Grooming Start-up of the Year 2026 43. Resilient Healthcare Limited: Most Supportive Domiciliary Care Provider 2026 - Kent 44. Directive Finance Ltd: Business Support & Advisory Firm of the Year 2026 45. Meat Free Planet: Best Vegetarian & Vegan Indian Restaurant 2026 – Wolverhampton & Plant-Based Dining Innovation Award 2026 46. Freedom Home Care: Best Disability Care Provider 2026 - West Yorkshire 47. Glenfields Foods Ltd: Premium Burger Manufacturer of the Year 2026 48. Marshall & Stewart: Best Bespoke Luxury Bed Manufacturer 2026 49. Odyssey Contractor Solutions Ltd: Best Nationwide Payroll Solutions Provider 2026 50. Your Digital Alchemist Ltd: Best Small Business Website Designer 2026 (Worcestershire): Marc Jukes & Client Service Excellence Award 2026 51. Peek A Booze: Most Inclusive Cabaret Hotel & Bar 2026 – Blackpool & Guest Experience Excellence Award 2026 52. Artisan Cellars Limited: Best Luxury Wine Rooms Provider 2026 53. Rhodes & Sons Construction Ltd: Best Civil Engineering Road Marking Specialist 2026 – Greater Manchester 54. OCL Vision: Best Specialist Eye Care & Vision Correction Clinic 2026 – London & Patient Care Excellence Award 2026 55. AML Accountancy Solutions LTD: Accountancy Firm of the Year 2026 - South West England 56. Peopling Ltd: Best Tech Industry HR Consultancy 2026 57. Zero Carbon: Best Solar & Battery Storage Design & Installation Company 2026 – Scotland 58. The Greener Roof Co: Most Trusted Solar & Roofing Installer 2026 – Scotland & Customer Service Excellence Award 2026 59. Strong Search Ltd: Most Trusted B2B Technology GTM Search Firm 2026 60. Biohealth Holistic Dentistry: Best Holistic Dentistry Practice 2026 - London 61. Greenholme Surveying Lt: Best Emerging Property Surveying Practice 2026 – Yorkshire & EcoConscious Excellence Award 2026 62. Olympus Power: Commercial Renewable Energy Innovator of the Year 2026 & Sustainability Impact Award 2026 63. Charter HCP Ltd: Best Information Pack Presentation 2026 & Best Non-Regulated Advisory 2026 64. Eco Home Insulation: Best Internal & Cavity Wall Insulation Company 2026 - England & Wales
Contents 65. Aston Vaughan: Best Letting Agent 2026 – Sussex & Customer Service Excellence Award 2026 66. Pawsome Pet Grooming & Spa: Best Luxury Pet Grooming Salon 2026 - London 67. CDM Plus Ltd: Best UK Health & Safety Compliance Experts 2026 & Renewables & Construction Safety Excellence Award 2026 68. Target Construction: Residential Contractor of the Year 2026 - Worcestershire 69. Tnema Ltd: Best Fresh Homemade Pasta Makers 2026 & Excellence in Vegan & Gluten-Free Options 2026 70. Glamorously Her: Best Luxury Cold- Processed Soap Bars Line 2026 71. Gt Yarmouth Hearing Care: Best Independent Hearing Care Provider 2026 - Norfolk 72. Mentor Group Ltd: Sales Enablement Consultancy of the Year 2026 73. Tilly’s Bunbury: Village Cafe & Coffee Shop of the Year 2026 – Cheshire & Community-Focused Cafe Experience Excellence Award 2026 74. Yoga Junkie: Best Holistic Wellness Studio 2026 - South Wales 75. Trail Blazing Events: Best Emerging Events Company 2026 76. Overcoming Mountains: Most Inspiring Personal Wellness Coaching Provider 2026 - Surrey 77. Rose Care Suffolk Ltd: Best Home Care Provider 2026 – Suffolk & Compassionate Care Excellence Award 2026 78. Critical Backup Solutions Ltd: Best Standby Power Installation Company 2026 79. Astounding Grounds Ltd: Best Landscape Design/Build Firm 2026 – Greater Manchester 80. Maxilead Ltd: Metal Recycling Business of the Year 2026 - North West England 81. Shazam Repairs Ltd: UK’s Leading Specialists in Surface Restoration 2026 82. Dyslexia Bedford: Leading Independent Dyslexia & SpLD Assessment Service 2026 83. Small Talk Speech and Language Therapy: Most Neuro-Divergent Informed Speech & Language Therapy Service 2026 & Excellence Award for Compassionate Therapy Services 2026 84. Ocean City Bids Ltd: Best Bid Writing & Tender Strategy Consultancy 2026 85. Thrive ADHD Coaching: ADHD & Emotional Wellbeing Coaching Enterprise of the Year 2026 86. KS Town Planning Ltd: Town Planning Consultancy of the Year 2026 - East of England 87. CHC: Best Customer-Focused Raw Pet Food Retailer 2026 - East Anglia 88. Orbis Care Limited: Award for Excellence in Compassionate Care 2026 - West Midlands 89. i-Thrive Well-Being Ltd: Leaders in Health & Wellbeing Innovation 2026 – Surrey 90. LifetrainUK: Best Foster Care Training Provider 2026 - South East England & Community Impact Excellence Award 2026 91. DAM Risk Assessments Ltd: Best Healthcare Compliance Consultancy 2026 92. Riverside Dental: Private Dental Practice of the Year 2026 - Norwich 93. Rennova Build Solutions: Best Home Renovations Company 2026 - South London 94. Mock Test Masters: Best 11+ Mock Test Company 2026 95. P.J Staffing: Recruitment Agency of the Year 2026 – Yorkshire 96. BB Heat Pumps LTD: Best Renewable Heating & Heat Pump Specialists 2026 – South East 97. MITLEV Accountants: Best Chartered Accountancy & Tax Practice 2026 – London 98. The Dirty Cow: Best Casual Dining Venue 2026 – Staffordshire 99. Renoscreed: Best Emerging Screed & Flooring System Solutions 2026 & Technical Support Excellence Award 2026 100. HelpMe Solutions Group Limited: Most Promising Digital Support Platform 2026 101. Rebekah Jones: Most Compassionate Psychotherapist 2026 - Southern England & Mental Health Excellence Award 2026 102. Cybèle Training & Consultancy Ltd: Best Bespoke Leadership & Management Training Provider 2026 & Business Resilience Excellence Award 2026 103. Cowell and Co: Operating System Integrator of the Year 2026 104. Lazenby’s Financial Services: Financial Adviser Team of the Year 2026 – West Yorkshire & Client Service Award 2026 105. M&C Educational Training Services Ltd: Best Metallurgy Training Provider 2026 106. PBT Safer Care LTD: Excellence Award in Person-Centred Specialist Care 2026 – Manchester 107. Innova NanoJet Technologies Ltd: Air Purification Technology Innovator of the Year 2026 108. Astrum Homes: Best Luxury Residential Property Developer 2026 - Buckinghamshire 109. JS Supported Living Services: Outstanding Supported Living Care Provider 2026 – East Midlands 110. TMS Grid Limited: Specialist Power Engineering Business of the Year 2026
Contents 111. Foreman Snags Ltd: Most Trusted Surface Repair Specialists 2026 & Restoration Excellence Award 2026 112. MBW Lettings Ltd: Best Letting & Property Management Agency 2026 – Wales 113. Cup of Life Coaching, Training, and Hypnotherapy (at Dalton Moor Farm): Best One-to-One Health & Wellness Coach 2026 - Durham 114. AA Produce Ltd: Best Independent Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Market Wholesaler 2026 – London 115. Undar Consultancy Limited/Reticula: Expert Network & Disruptive Growth Insights Excellence Award 2026 116. G2G Business Services Ltd T/A Good2Great: Most Innovative Leadership Programme 2026 117. The Artea Room: Best Independent Tearoom Experience 2026 – Northamptonshire & Guest Hospitality Excellence Award 2026 118. Aire Smart: Best Automotive Smart Repair Solutions Company 2026 – Northern England 119. Are Capital Advisors: Best Real Estate Finance Advisory Firm 2026 & Capital Structuring & Lending Solutions Excellence Award 2026 120. Remedy Car Parts: Best Car Parts & Accessories Supplier 2026 - Channel Islands 121. Vita Training and Development: Best Health & Social Care Training Provider 2026 – West Yorkshire 122. YOU Management: Best International Talent Agency 2026 & Excellence Award in Artist Representation & Career Development 2026 123. Over the Rainbow Day Nursery: Nursery of the Year 2026 – Essex 124. Pure Muscles Gym: Best Independent Strength & Conditioning Gym 2026 – London 125. EcoWarmth (SE) Limited: Best Energy-Efficient Heating Solutions Provider 2026 – Surrey 126. RMC Business Solutions Ltd: Best Security Technology & Infrastructure Provider 2026 & ClientFocused Service Excellence Award 2026 127. Sol4r Energy LTD: Most Innovative Renewable Energy Company 2026 & Business Growth Excellence Award 2026 128. Brick Management And Lettings: Most Trusted Property Management Company 2026 – Hampshire 129. Mightywaters: Best Strategic People & Organisational Development Company 2026 130. Tutors & Exams: Best Private Candidate Examination Services Provider 2026 & Accessible Examination Support Excellence Award 2026 131. Curran Estates: Most Client-Focused Property Agency 2026 - South Wales 132. Access For All South West: Disability Access & Inclusion Champions of the Year 2026 – South West England & Disability Access & Inclusion Specialist of the Year 2026 (South West England): Carron Croker 133. Lingfield Equine Vets: Best Equine Veterinary Practice 2026 - South East England & Advanced Equine Care Excellence Award 2026 134. Think Strategic UK Ltd: Most Innovative Strategy Consultancy 2026 – England 135. Bovingdons Limited: Best Local Estate & Letting Agents 2026 – Cambridgeshire & Property Marketing & Client Service Excellence Award 2026 136. Planet Surfacing: Best Residential Paving & Surfacing Company 2026 – North West England 137. Sturgess Mortgage Solutions: Best Independent Mortgage & Protection Advisory Firm 2026 – South Wales 138. Clydach Housing: Best Progressive Housing Solutions Provider 2026 – Wales 139. Impactfull Consulting Ltd: Best Boutique Start-Up Growth Consultancy 2026 - London 140. Mellors Estate Agents: Best Independent Estate Agency 2026 - Derbyshire 141. Homeshield Scotland Ltd: Most Trusted Home Improvement Company 2026 – Scotland & Customer Satisfaction Excellence Award 2026 142. Rambaldini Welding Services Ltd: Best Welder Training & Qualification Provider 2026 143. Aspire Medical Appraisals: Leading Provider of Medical Appraisals for GMC Doctors 2026 144. First Class Support: Best UK NMH Provider 2026 145. Blue Heart Clinics: Best Multi-Disciplinary Therapy Clinic Group 2026 & Patient-Centred Healthcare Excellence Award 2026 146. ICP Services Ltd: Excellence in Electrical Design & Consultancy Services 2026 147. Johnny's Bar and Parlour: Best Cocktail Bar & Restaurant 2026 - North Yorkshire 148. Higgins Garden Maintenance: Best Landscaping Company 2026 - North Lanarkshire & Excellence in Garden Maintenance 2026 149. Thrive OBM Academy: Best Online Business Manager Training & Certification Provider 2026 150. Javelin Investments Limited: Leaders in Property Maintenance & Management 2026 - North London
Contents 151. Us4ALL Ltd: Best Independent Domiciliary Support Business 2026 – Berkshire & Patient Care Excellence Award 2026 152. Shape Talent: Most Dedicated Workplace Gender Equality Consultancy 2026 153. Charles Slater Recruitment: Best Emerging SaaS Specialist Recruitment Company 2026 & Excellence Award in Operator-Led Executive Search 2026 154. AdvisoryAI: FinTech Company of the Year 2026 155. The Assessment Practice: Assessment Practice of the Year 2026 156. Success Academies: Best Value Homeschooling Provider 2026
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After spending three decades working in overseas travel, Katrina Atkinson made the decision to completely retrain and follow a new dream – this time in the beauty and wellness sector. Working out of a salon in her garden in Hull, Top Kat Wellness has, through word of mouth, loyalty, and tremendous client experiences, blossomed into one of Yorkshire’s leading locations for beauty and wellness. We caught up with Katrina following her success on the cover of our UK Enterprise Awards 2026. Best Boutique Wellness & Beauty Salon 2026 – East Yorkshire With 32 years in international travel under her belt, Katrina knows more than a thing or two about some of the top salons in the world – given she has visited many of them herself. Taking the best techniques and the personal element that all of her favourite locations had, Katrina qualified from college and created Top Kat Wellness as a way to help people feel better about their skin and the way they look, supporting their overall wellness. Those who visit Katrina’s garden salon for these services range from young professionals to mature clients and carers, not to mention people living with stressrelated concerns or individuals in search of a more personal and intimate experience than most salons in the area provide. As a result, seeing her clients often feels more like catching up an old friend than work, and this atmosphere is one of the things that keeps them coming back. “I do not see clients as appointment times; I see them as individuals, each with their own story, needs, and insecurities.” Guided by the belief that everyone is beautiful, Katrina helps these clients achieve the results they want through a series of anti-ageing treatments and non-invasive techniques that make a person look and feel younger. Specifically, her treatments span facials, eye and brow treatments, manicures, and pedicures, as well as waxing. All of these treatments see Katrina using high-end products from brands like Rejuvi skin care, Caci-non surgical face lift and Footlogix to name but a few. . Whilst these offerings are fundamental to the success of her brand, what really makes Top Kat Wellness stand out is that Katrina goes way beyond these treatments, changing what it means for a salon to truly embody the concept of ‘wellness’. This is best seen through her salon being widely recognised as one of the first dementiafriendly salons in Hull, something inspired by her mother’s experiences with the condition. Katrina has undertaken specialist dementia training to support clients and their families, ensuring that every person who walks through the doors of her salon feels welcome, respected, and understood all at once. As Katrina explained: “Following my own mother’s dementia journey, I became passionate about creating a welcoming and understanding environment for all clients, including those living with dementia or caring responsibilities. I never want people to feel judged or overlooked.” As an extension of her focus on wellbeing, Katrina has launched Top Kat Social, a community initiative that sees her bring clients together outside of the salon through social events like lunches and theatre trips. The aim here is to combat loneliness and promote a deeper sense of wellbeing than can be achieved through self-care. Similarly, on the theme of togetherness, it would be remiss not to mention the invaluable contributions of Wendy, Katrina’s colleague and trusted right hand. The two originally met when they were at college together, and Katrina was immediately struck by the natural talent and professionalism Wendy showed, as well as her kindness and work ethic. Katrina chose Wendy knowing that she could embody everything her brand stood for, and it is hard to imagine Top Kat Wellness achieving the status it has without her. Commenting on her salon’s success in this year’s UK Enterprise Awards, marking its second consecutive appearance in the programme, Katrina told us: “For me, success has never simply been about awards or recognition. It is about using my business and platform to support others, raise awareness, give back to the local community, and help where I can. Everything I do comes from the heart, and my aim has always been to create a business where people feel welcomed, uplifted, supported, and cared for.” Katrina has certainly succeeded in this aim, and for the positive difference she has made in the lives of so many, we are honoured to name Top Kat Wellness as the Best Boutique Wellness & Beauty Salon 2026 – East Yorkshire. Contact: Katrina Atkinson Company: Top Kat Wellness Web Address: https://www.topkatwellness.co.uk/
UK Enterprise Awards 2026/ 10 First Plumb Solutions Ltd (First Plumb) is a specialist, family-run, Gas Safe approved plumbing and heating business committed to delivering topclass services across the east of Scotland, in Kirkcaldy, Edinburgh, Fife, Perth, Dundee, Livingston, and everywhere in between. With 30 years of combined industry experience, the team serve both commercial and residential clients with exceptional levels of service in the areas of plumbing, heating, bathrooms, kitchens, boilers, and power flushing. Now recognised within the UK Enterprise Awards 2026, we take a closer look at what makes First Plumb so worthy of awards success. First Plumb Solutions has come a long way since it first started out as a oneman operation, having now grown into a fully-fledged team of expert plumbers, heating engineers, and joiners, providing a comprehensive and consistently excellent range of services for domestic and commercial clients alike. Now a highly trusted company with a growing and loyal customer base comprising hundreds of people and businesses across the east of Scotland, the First Plumb team’s passion for what they do truly shines through in incredible customer service and skilled workmanship – every time, no matter the size of the job. “We only employ the best engineers or plumbers,” Shona Balfour, from First Plumb, tells us. “All our staff are highly vetted – They work in a way that is clean, tidy, and they’re good at their job. “We strive to do the best job we can to be at the top of the industry, using top of the line tools, working tidily and efficiently to make sure our clients get the best results every time. Our long-term goals are to keep growing, but keeping the good name we have.” Shona notes that in Scotland, there aren’t enough plumbing companies, so this works in the First Plumb’s favour with plenty of access to work. By going above and beyond on each and every project, the business has indeed built up a glowing reputation – With 150+ happy clients, 300+ projects completed, 200+ emergency callouts, and a 4.2 Google and 9.76/10 Check a Trade rating under its belt, First Plumb has become the go-to business to solve a variety of plumbing and heating issues. “At First Plumb, we’re your trusted plumbing experts, ready to tackle all your plumbing needs, 24/7. We’ve got the skills, experience, and dedication to get the job done right every time. Our 24-hour emergency service means you’re never alone in a plumbing crisis.” First Plumb operates within a rapidly evolving industry, which is set to undergo significant changes driven by the government’s net-zero ambitions, including the push for heat pumps in more homes; smart thermostats becoming the standard expectation as opposed to just a premium extra; the requirement for greener systems by both customers and regulations, such as water-saving fixtures, efficient hot water systems, and leak detection tech; and retrofit work such as boiler replacements, heat pump upgrades, and pipework modernisation being one of the biggest long-term opportunities for businesses in the field. As a forward-looking business, First Plumb proves itself time and again to be innovative and responsive, ensuring it is always meeting its customers’ needs. From 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs to expert boiler installation and servicing, enhancing bathrooms and incorporating modern plumbing solutions to specialist drain cleaning and unblocking, reliable central heating solutions to precise leak detection and repair, the business has become renowned for its speedy delivery of reliable, cutting-edge, high-quality service and meticulous attention to detail, fulfilling the client’s unique needs to an unparalleled standard every time. This service comes at an affordable rate and achieves the utmost value, while also underscored by comprehensive insurance for peace of mind. So, what do some of First Plumb’s clients have to say about their experience? “Liam at First Plumb was quick to respond,” comments one client. “Very helpful and completed the job in no time, even when having to order parts. I would have no hesitation in using or recommending his services.” “I had my old kitchen sink and tap replaced,” shares another. “The service was fantastic from start to finish. I was contacted immediately, booked within two days, and the installation was very professional, efficient, and tidy.” “We were thoroughly impressed with First Plumb,” another client adds. “They completely Plumbing Specialists of the Year 2026 - Kirkcaldy
renovated our old bathroom, designing a new space that perfectly suits our needs. As the original issue was a leak, they ensured the room was properly dried out before rebuilding to prevent any future issues, then fitted the new bathroom, moved the shower and toilet to better spots, and added extra to make it ideal. Their excellent communication kept us informed, suggested great ideas, and made the process easy and stress-free. The result was amazing!” “Called regarding a broken shower I needed replaced urgently. First Plumb was out in no time to diagnose the issue and advise on what he felt was the best plan going forward. He then quoted me there and then for a like for like replacement, which is now fitted and working spot on! Would certainly use again and will be highly recommended. Cheers again, mate, much appreciated!” – First Plumb customer Making all of this happen is the team’s dedication toward completing every job to the highest possible standard. They are sure to weave their industry expertise throughout every project, treat every client with respect, utilise cutting-edge tools so they can work with precision, and always clean up during and after a job. This comes alongside brilliant levels of customer service, comprising rapid response times, flexibility to complete work on evenings and weekends, and even being willing to provide assistance in locations outside of its typical service areas on a case-by-case basis. With all of this in mind, what does the future look like for First Plumb Solutions? Considering all of the success it’s enjoyed so far, it looks like the only way is up for the firm. When we ask Shona the question, she only discloses a little: “We have a fair few complete house renovations and commercial renovations coming up – a fair few big brands, but cannot be named at this point.” Check out the company website and Facebook see what First Plumb gets up to next! If you would like to get in touch with First Plumb, a friendly member of the team is available on WhatsApp, email (info@firstplumbsolutions. co.uk), or via the contact form on the website. Company name: First Plumb Solutions Ltd Contact name: Shona Balfour Email: info@firstplumbsolutions.co.uk Website: www.firstplumbsolutions.co.uk
UK Enterprise Awards 2026/ 12 “Every day at CPH Retrofit, we strive to deliver measurable, lasting improvements to the homes and lives of the people we serve,” Alex begins. “Our focus is not simply on installing insulation or upgrading heating systems, it is on ensuring that every property we touch becomes warmer, healthier, and more affordable to live in. We work to the highest technical standards, but our daily goal is human: to protect vulnerable residents from fuel poverty, damp, and mould, and to give social housing providers confidence that their retrofit investment is delivering genuine, verified outcomes.” Making it all happen at CPH Retrofit is a world-class team who bring more than 15 years of hands-on experience, including a leadership team who began their careers as retrofit installers themselves. This practical background gives them a truly industry-leading understanding of the challenges faced onsite, meaning they can provide pragmatic, workable solutions, not just theoretical advice. Furthermore, they are specialists in compliance, including PAS 2035 and 2030, so they can take on the burden of abiding by regulations away from clients, ensuring every measure installed meets the rigorous standards required for government-funded schemes and national frameworks. As such, clients can only expect the gold standard from CPH Retrofit as it delivers its comprehensive range of services. These span comprehensive property evaluations to the latest energy efficiency standards, which form the data foundation for all subsequent improvements; end-to-end management of the retrofit process, acting as the central point of contact and ensuring all projects are fully compliant with PAS 2035 regulations and delivered to the highest standard; advanced technical analysis of retrofit options, enabling clients to determine the most cost-effective ways to achieve desired energy performance outcomes; and retrofit design, where it ensures energy efficiency measure is technically integrated and fully compliant with PAS 2035 requirements. By handling every stage from initial assessment through to coordination and final technical monitoring, the team will reduce friction, minimise risk, and ensure seamless delivery time and again. Through technical excellence, robust compliance, and a deep understanding of the domestic retrofit landscape, CPH Retrofit remains committed to providing its clients with only the highest possible standards. At the foundation of this work are three core values: technical rigour, operating within PAS 2030/2035:2023 frameworks, with MCIOBregistered designers and solid quality management systems; tenantfirst integrity, treating all residents as stakeholders, not subjects, through clear communication, minimal disruption, and ensuring the works actually solve the problems they are facing; and community accountability, meaning it recruits locally, trains on an ongoing basis, and measures its success partly by the employment and skills it leaves behind in the communities in which it operates. “This award belongs to our people. Our project teams, surveyors, coordinators, installers, and training staff deliver the CPH Retrofit is a leading one-stop shop providing domestic retrofit services and energy efficiency consulting for clients such as retrofit installers, social housing providers, and accreditation bodies. From its head office in the northeast of England and offices in Norfolk, England and Livingston, Scotland, it is available across the UK to businesses who need costeffective, best-value support in navigating the complexities of large-scale domestic energy projects. Its service offering is designed to ensure seamless project execution and solid regulatory compliance, particularly under the PAS 2035 framework. We speak to Commercial Director, Alex Leighton to learn more about CPH Retrofit’s exceptional offering. Best Whole-House Retrofit Delivery Specialists 2026
work that won it. Our directors provide the governance that protects it. We are not a brand or a balance sheet; we are group of people committed to doing retrofit properly.” Of course, it is vital that the company stays ahead within the industry, and Alex tells us that this requires more than just awareness, but an embedded capability. He explains, “All CPH Retrofit directors are MCIOB members, meaning strategic decisions are made by professionals who understand construction from the ground up and can anticipate regulatory shifts before they become mandatory.” He continues, “We also own and operate Nationwide Training Services, our in-house training centre delivering NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Gas, LPG, Oil, electrical, low carbon terchnologies, Domestic Retrofit, Insulation and Building Treatments, and Domestic Energy Assessment. When PAS 2035:2023 was introduced, our teams were already working to the updated standard because we had built the curriculum ourselves. This vertical integration of training and delivery means we adapt faster than competitors relying on external providers.” Therefore, it knows how the UK retrofit sector is currently undergoing a fundamental shift from volume-driven delivery to outcome-assured decarbonisation. Awaab’s Law has transformed damp and mould into statutory compliance, while PAS 2035:2023 and TrustMark Data and Monitoring now mandate actual performance improvement evidence. Funding is pivoting from ECO4 toward Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 3 and deeper whole-house retrofit packages, a critical workforce shortage is colliding with accelerating Net Zero Strategy timelines, and resident engagement is becoming a scored procurement criterion rather than optional good practice. CPH Retrofit doesn’t need to adapt to any of these trends; they only validate its existing model. It has always treated damp and mould as a core competency, and, notably, its 584-home programme has achieved warmer, healthier homes for families. It has also accomplished SAP band improvements from D to C and F to C, coordinated whole-house packages combining solar PV, air source heat pumps, loft insulation, glazing, and doors, in addition to post-completion thermal monitoring using in-situ temperature and humidity logging. Its innovative work goes further with its introduction of digital QMS infrastructure, which provides clients with live quality visibility that manual competitors cannot match. This is while it remains equipped to face any problem that may arise. From unforeseen building conditions to supply chain pressures to TrustMark non-conformance issues, CPH Retrofit is always prepared. Its in-house technical team conducts HHSRS Category 1 hazard assessments and produces remedial specifications rather than outsourcing. This is while its training centre allows it to redeploy and upskill staff without delay, whether the project demands specialist ventilation installation or AutoPSI thermal bridging calculations. It does not wait for external specialists; it trains and certifies its own people. What really makes CPH Retrofit stand out within the industry is the fact that it takes direct ownership of the entire competency chain: chartered directors, in-house training, and field delivery, all under one roof. While most retrofit contractors compromise on training, design, or quality assurance, CPH Retrofit owns all three. For social housing providers and framework clients, this means reduced risk, consistent quality, and the confidence that standards will never be diluted, no matter how much the business scales. Ultimately, CPH Retrofit is raising the benchmark in the UK sector through proven technical rigour, development of domestic skills rather than importing labour, and proving that social value and commercial success are integrated performance drivers, not separate procurement categories. But what truly makes it the outstanding and award-winning business it is today is its team’s collective passion, pride, and human-centred approach in everything they do. Now, the company is poised for continued success. By mid2027, CPH Retrofit will operate as an integrated group in retrofit delivery, specialist damp and mould compliance, and workforce development under unified MCIOB-registered director oversight and common digital infrastructure. “This is how we believe the UK retrofit sector must evolve to meet its 2050 net-zero commitment,” says Alex, “Not through fragmented subcontracting, but through accountable, vertically integrated capability.” Company name: CPH Retrofit Contact name: Alex Leighton Website: www.cphretrofit.co.uk
UK Enterprise Awards 2026/ 14 Best Behavioural Intelligence Consultancy 2026 & Workplace Communication & Culture Transformation Excellence Award 2026 Unspoken Signals is a behavioural intelligence consultancy working with businesses in sectors such as premium hospitality, fine dining, retail, and members’ clubs to help them understand what it actually takes, on the human side, to create moments that lead to trust, loyalty, return visits, and long-lasting human connection. The company helps teams notice the small signals that often decide the guest experience: tone shifts, hesitation, silence, emotional withdrawal, generational differences, and the gap between what people say and what they actually feel. Its work is built around a simple but powerful idea: a signal is not proof, it is a clue. Unspoken Signals trains people to observe more carefully, interpret more responsibly, understand context, and respond with greater empathy and precision. Today, its primary focus is premium hospitality and high-touch service environments; long term, the same methodology will also support individuals, young professionals, leaders, and teams through courses, certification, and personal development training. We speak to Founder and Behavioural Intelligence Expert, Freddie Lovett, to learn more about the work Unspoken Signals does. Expert communication didn’t always come naturally to Freddie Lovett. At three months old, he was severely ill with viral encephalitis, a brainswelling virus that effects just one in 500 million people. He was left temporarily blind and with lasting damage to his memory, which led to his school years being a relentless challenge where he was behind in his speech, reading, and writing. Academics were a struggle for him; however, he developed a skill that turned out to be highly valuable: the ability to decipher the unspoken signals that surrounded him but others often missed, including tone of voice, body language, and emotional changes. By forming this survival instinct at such a young age, it became embedded within the unique leadership style he possesses today. His firsthand experience and expertise in behavioural intelligence now enables him to train clients such as five-star hotels and ultra-high-networth individuals to thrive in this area, too. From VIP complaints to smooth running of operations, he has transformed struggling teams into well-oiled, driven units who know exactly how to respond to customers even under the most intense pressure. “The premise is simple,” Freddie begins. “The moments that decide whether a guest returns, recommends you, or stays loyal are made by individual people, not systems. The same moments decide whether the team members creating them stay in the role or quietly disengage, taking the human quality of the experience with them. That’s where we work. On the human layer.” He elaborates, “We work on two fronts. First, we reveal what is really happening through Human Impact Audits and discreet undercover guest-journey assessments. We look at where the service promise is experienced as warm, personal, and emotionally intelligent, and where it becomes process-driven, inconsistent, or generic. Second, we develop the people inside those teams through Practice Labs, certification pathways, and behavioural intelligence training. Sitting underneath this is the Human Impact Board, our digital infrastructure for turning human patterns into something operators can see, track, and act on. The goal is to make behaviour visible before it becomes a complaint, a lost guest, or a resignation.” “Most premium hotels look the same on paper. Same star ratings, same design language, same operational standards. The thing that actually separates them is what guests feel in the small moments. Whether someone read them right. Whether someone cared, visibly. Unspoken Signals exists to make that part of the experience reliable instead of accidental.” The key to creating a truly memorable guest experience is not only operational excellence. It is the ability to read another human being with care, in real time, and under pressure. This is what Unspoken Signals teaches its clients to do. There are four values that shape how it does this. First, it is honest. Many organisations see reviews, complaints, turnover, and guest satisfaction scores, but miss the human signals that created them. Unspoken Signals helps operators see what guests and staff are often too polite, too tired, or too uncomfortable to say directly. That can make the first conversation uncomfortable, but it is also what allows the work to produce real change. Second is respect for the individual. The team members being developed are not a problem to be fixed. They are professionals doing some of the most demanding emotional work in any industry, often without ever being properly recognised for it. Development must sharpen capability without crushing confidence. In hospitality, retail, and other service environments, that difference can decide whether someone grows in the role or leaves it. Next is the importance of human judgement. Almost every stage of the customer journey is now being automated, scored, and optimised. But Unspoken Signals
the decisive moment is still often human: whether the person in front of the guest noticed a pause, read a shift in tone, understood silence, adapted to the situation, and responded with dignity. Unspoken Signals treats this not as a soft skill, but as serious commercial work. Lastly, the company believes that empathy, presence, and responsible interpretation are trainable. This matters especially in workplaces where several generations work side by side, each with different instincts around eye contact, tone, pace, authority, warmth, and feedback. “If we did not believe this, there would be no business to run,” Freddie comments. “We believe it because we have watched it happen, repeatedly, in venues that took the work seriously.” “Long-term, the ambition is to make behavioural intelligence as standard a part of running a premium business as financial reporting,” he tells us. “The venues and brands still trading on real human attentiveness in five years’ time will be the ones with pricing power. Everyone else will be competing on convenience, which is a race nobody wins.” “Our workshops aren’t lectures, role plays, or one-day enthusiasms that fade by Monday. They go underneath behaviour to the perception that produces it. How someone actually sees the guest, colleague, or client in front of them. How they separate observation from assumption. How they recover when something goes wrong. That deeper level is what separates a team that performs from a team that merely complies.” What truly gives Unspoken Signals its leading edge is its focus on both the organisation and the individual. The business needs to understand where human experience is breaking down. The person needs practical skills they can use in the moment. That is why the work does not stop at an audit report. A Human Impact Audit can reveal silent complaints, handover loss, emotional timing gaps, leadership pressure, or generational misunderstanding. Practice Labs then turn those findings into real behavioural development. From there, Unspoken Signals gives team members something more useful than a vague instruction to “be more attentive”. Its method teaches people to pause before they judge: What did I actually observe? What might I be adding from myself? What else could this signal mean? What context is missing? What would be a responsible response? This is especially important when teams are under pressure, when younger staff are still developing professional presence, or when leaders are trying to build cohesion across different generations. The same thinking also makes Unspoken Signals relevant beyond luxury hospitality. Turnover, disengagement, conflict, poor communication, and misunderstood behaviour are not only hotel problems. They are workplace problems. Many people, especially younger professionals, are entering working life with strong digital fluency but less training in the human layer: reading a room, handling feedback, understanding tone, noticing discomfort, managing pressure, and communicating with confidence without becoming artificial. Looking ahead, Unspoken Signals will continue to focus first on premium hotels, where the behavioural stakes and commercial returns are highest. At the same time, it is building the foundations for a wider ecosystem: behavioural intelligence certification, an Online Academy, specialist training pathways, and future B2C courses for individuals who want to develop human perception, self-awareness, confidence, and responsible communication. The goal is straightforward: to make behavioural intelligence measurable, certifiable, and recognisable across UK hospitality and luxury retail, while laying the groundwork for a broader human skills movement that can travel internationally. Company name: Unspoken Signals Contact name: Freddie Lovett Website: www.unspokensignals.com Email: info@unspokensignals.com
UK Enterprise Awards 2026/ 16 For almost three decades, PR Scully & Co Solicitors has dedicated itself to securing justice and compensation for clients across the UK. The firm has built an exceptional reputation for delivering expert legal advice, outstanding client care, and an unwavering determination to achieve the best possible outcomes for those it represents. As PR Scully & Co Solicitors is named in the UK Enterprise Awards 2026, we spoke with Practice Manager Emma Robinson and owners Patricia Scully and Alasdair Brown for more information. “Our clients are front and centre of everything that we do.” Based in Manchester, PR Scully & Co Solicitors is a multi-award-winning firm founded in 1999 by Senior Partner Patricia Scully, who was joined in partnership shortly after by Alasdair Brown. The firm has grown organically over the last 27 years, helping more than 30,000 clients by successfully pursuing a wide variety of claims on their behalf and recovering more than £6 million in compensation each year. PR Scully & Co Solicitors specialises in personal injury, medical negligence, housing disrepair, landlord and tenant disputes, military hearing loss claims, and data breach compensation claims. With each case it undertakes, the firm strives to ensure that individuals who have suffered injury, negligence, and unfair treatment receive the compensation, support, and justice they deserve whilst making the legal process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. “We contribute to the UK corporate and legal landscape by providing accessible, high-quality legal services to individuals who may otherwise struggle to pursue claims independently. Our no-win, no-fee approach helps remove financial barriers to justice, ensuring clients can seek expert legal representation regardless of their circumstances.” As a longstanding family-run firm, PR Scully & Co Solicitors has built a reputation for treating clients as individuals rather than case numbers. Clients benefit from direct access to experienced solicitors who provide practical guidance and dedicated support from start to finish. This approach, together with a strong track record of successful claims and no-win, no-fee services, helps to distinguish PR Scully & Co Solicitors within a highly competitive industry. “Our core values are built around integrity, professionalism, compassion, and client care,” Alasdair told us. “We understand that many of our clients come to us during difficult and challenging periods in their lives, so we place great importance on clear communication, honesty, and personal support throughout every stage of a claim.” These values play a central role in PR Scully & Co Solicitors’ daily activities, guiding the ways in which its team interacts with clients, manages cases, and maintains the high standards that are expected of the firm. All cases are treated with complete care and attention, ensuring that clients remain updated, supported, and confident in the service they receive. The team recognises that every case is unique, and legal matters can often be complex or sensitive. For this reason, the team assesses each situation carefully, before providing honest advice and working collaboratively with clients to achieve the strongest possible outcome. PR Scully & Co Solicitors prides itself on being approachable and responsive, so that clients feel supported even during difficult circumstances. The team continually develops its expertise through ongoing legal training, professional development, and the close monitoring of regulatory updates. The firm invests significantly in efficient case management systems and streamlined processes to ensure clients receive clear communication, timely updates, and an effective service throughout their claim. The legal landscape is currently evolving – particularly in areas such as personal injury including catastrophic injuries, medical negligence, housing disrepair, military hearing loss claims, and data breach claims – so PR Scully & Co Solicitors places strong emphasis on keeping up to date with changes in legislation, case law, and industry best practice. At present, the firm sees several significant trends shaping the legal industry. Many of these developments are specific to the UK and are having a direct impact on how claimant law firms operate and support clients. One of the most notable trends is the continued rise in housing disrepair claims. Increasing public awareness of tenant rights, combined with greater scrutiny of landlords and housing providers, has led to a significant increase in claims relating to damp, mould, unsafe living conditions, and delayed repairs. Furthermore, recent changes linked to the UK’s Renters’ Rights reforms are also expected to strengthen tenant protections further. “These developments reinforce the importance of staying adaptable, informed, and client-focused,” Emma explained. “At PR Scully & Co Solicitors, we continue to invest in specialist expertise, staff training, and efficient systems to ensure we can respond quickly to industry changes while maintaining the high standards of service our clients expect. Our experience across evolving areas of litigation allows us to guide clients confidently through increasingly complex legal processes while continuing to provide practical, accessible legal support.” At the same time, PR Scully & Co Solicitors plays an instrumental role in raising standards of accountability across multiple sectors by pursuing claims involving negligent behaviour, unsafe housing conditions, workplace accidents, and data breaches. Through this work, the firm does not only support individual clients but also encourages higher standards of compliance, care, and responsibility among organisations and service providers. This work is made possible partially due to the firm’s location in the UK, operating within a legal system that is highly respected internationally for its structure, regulation, and commitment to protecting individual rights. The UK legal sector provides a strong framework for claimant representation, allowing firms such as PR Scully & Co Solicitors to advocate effectively for individuals seeking justice, compensation, and accountability. Being based in the UK also enables PR Scully & Co Solicitors to operate within a diverse and evolving market, where legal protections continue to develop across its areas of expertise. “This creates opportunities for specialist firms to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives,” said Patricia, “by helping clients navigate increasingly complex legal matters with confidence and support.” For the next 12 to 24 months, PR Scully & Co Solicitors’ focus is on continuing to strengthen and expand the specialist legal services it provides, whilst maintaining the high level of personal client care that has defined its services Best Personal Injury Law Firm 2026 – North West England
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