South Norfolk Business Awards winners 2019

For over 20 years, enLight, based in Loddon have been developing high-tech software, hardware and electronic products. They transform conventional street lighting into an energy efficient and low maintenance solution.

Judges were impressed with:

• the highly advanced use of energy saving smart technology
• the in-house manufacture of the core components
• the sensor capability which could be applied across a wide range of applications

Finalists: Greenwood & Bell, Netmatters Ltd

Founders Rob Field and David Russell have more than 50 years’ experience in academic and translational research. Iceni Diagnostics based on the Norwich Research Park is focused on the development of carbohydrate-based therapeutics and point-of-care diagnostics.

Judges were impressed with:

• the rapid, low cost way to detect infectious diseases
• the huge opportunity for global social good
• the commitment to build the business

Finalists: Cambridge Oncometrix Ltd (Highly Commended), Leaf Expression Systems

Excellence in Advanced Manufacturing
Sponsored by Mirus Aircraft Seating

Set up 20 years ago, Panel Graphic supply high-quality display panels, from their factories in Loddon. Their unique abrasion resistant and anti-reflective coating process has resulted in major orders from industry giants such as Porsche, Aston Martin and McLaren.

Judges were impressed with:

• the continuous investment to meet business objectives
• an excellent sales and profit track record 
• their strong financial governance

Finalists: Ansible Motion (Highly Commended), Proeon Systems

Innovation in Agriculture, Food and Drink
Sponsored by New Anglia LEP

This Harleston based family business set out to differentiate its products in the busy drinks market. Their method of freezing apple juice prior to fermentation has created a range of niche products with more innovative products on the way.

Judges were impressed with:

• the variety of unusual products offered, helping them remain sustainable and profitable
• the innovative use of production waste to develop by-products

Finalists: Bace Foods Ltd, Pepperell's Meats

Visitor Economy Experience
Sponsored by Dunston Hall Hotel

The 19th Century trading stop for working Wherrymen at Burgh St Peter has become an award-winning holiday park and marina. Open all year round, it features the extended Waveney Inn, luxury holiday lodges, 5-star glamping and boat hire, and a ferry link to Carlton Marshes Nature reserve.

Judges were impressed with:

• the teams strong drive for sustainable and responsible tourism
• a wide range of facilities designed to grow the year-round visitor economy
• their business plan for future growth

Finalists: The Corn Hall (Highly Commended), Lotus Driving Academy

New Business
Sponsored by CNC Building Control

Established in Wymondham last summer, Centre Paws Norfolk has created a unique one stop venue offering services and activities for dog loving families. People can enjoy time with their dogs in an educational and recreational environment, with the added benefit of good food and drink onsite. 

Judges were impressed with:

• the drive and determination to build up a wide range of services
• the use of social media to build awareness
• ambitious plans to add trails, holiday camps and Sunday opening

Finalists: OakVilla Distillery, Pasta Gusto

Business Growth
Sponsored by Big Sky Developments

A second award for this Loddon based business, this time for demonstrating outstanding growth. A 70% increase in turnover with strong Net Profit and a 60% growth in staff numbers all point to a company being the best at what they do. Over £400,000 has recently been invested in equipment to underpin future development.

Judges were impressed with:

• a local family business leading the sector in Europe
• a ‘can do’ approach to business with a £4.2m turnover
• projected £6m turnover next year

Finalists: Netmatters Ltd (Highly Commended), Face to Face Finance (Anglia) Ltd

International Business Growth
Sponsored by Hethel Innovation

Established in 2013, Cobalt Aerospace export 99% of its LED aircraft cabin lighting systems, manufactured at their Hingham premises. Just one of the company’s USP’s is its partnership with Airbus offering a certified retrofit to A320, 330 and 340 aircraft. With sales growing 62.4% last year, the addition of their wireless phone charging system will keep this company flying high. 

Judges were impressed with:

• the impressive list of prestigious airline customers
• the in-house manufacturing process
• their ambition for continued and sustained growth

Finalists: Midwich Group Plc, Snelling Business Systems

Business in the Community
Sponsored by Britannia Safety & Training

A 143-acre working farm in Toft Monks, Clinks Care Farm has supported disadvantaged people since 2010. A dedicated team help vulnerable people repair their lives, preparing those that can, to re-join the workplace. A farm shop, veg box scheme and programme of events demonstrate this as a business truly supporting its local community.

Judges were impressed with:

• the support network for vulnerable people
• the enthusiasm of staff and volunteers
• their involvement in the wider community

Finalists: Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services, Netmatters Ltd

Retailer of the Year
Sponsored by Fosters Solicitors LLP

This award is the culmination of 18 years of development by Gary and Brenda. A dedicated and very knowledgeable team of 40 staff, a long-term vision and careful consideration of its customers, has seen the business grow and flourish. Recent extensions including the Four Seasons Café have added another great reason to visit our Retailer of the Year.

Judges were impressed with:

• the emphasis on local staff and retention
• long-term investment and vision
• first-class customer experience

Finalists: Little Boutique, Our Slice of Country Life