The vibrant spirit of Ilkley's business community was celebrated in style at the 2025 Ilkley Business Awards, held at the Craiglands Hotel on Friday 7th March.
238 business guests gathered to witness the crowning of nine outstanding businesses and three exceptional employees, marking an evening of triumph and recognition.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as businesses of all sizes were honoured for their innovation, dedication, and contribution to the town's thriving economy.
Sarah Brookfield-Almond, Manager of Ilkley BID, enthused, "As part of Ilkley BID's ongoing commitment to support local businesses, we were incredibly proud to be joint headline sponsors of this prestigious event.
“The Ilkley Business Awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the hard work and success of businesses in our community and it was a delight to see so many recognised for their achievements.
"As a way to showcase the dedication and innovation of local entrepreneurs, these awards play a crucial role in fostering a thriving business environment in Ilkley. It is truly inspiring to witness the talent and passion that drives them to excel and contribute to the growth of our town.
"We look forward to continuing our support for the Ilkley Business Awards and applauding the outstanding achievements of the businesses that make our town so special.”
Adding to the celebratory tone, Nick Hancock from Your Ilkley Radio, joint Headline Sponsor with Ilkley BID, shared:
"Ilkley is a thriving business community, and sponsoring these awards is our way of investing in its continued success. We're honoured to be part of an event that celebrates the best of what Ilkley has to offer.
“Your Ilkley Radio is the area’s new local radio station from the makers of Stray FM. We’re all about the best of life in Ilkley. You can listen 24 hours a day on smart speaker, on our free app and online at yourilkley.com. Find us on socials @yourilkleyradio.”
The rigorous judging process was overseen by a panel of esteemed independent judges: Rich Hayden, Managing Director of Madeby7 (Leeds); David Spicer, Bradford University School of Management; and Sarah Howsen, Skipton BID Manager. Their expertise and impartiality ensured a fair and credible outcome.
The event's success was made possible by the generous support of key sponsors. The Ilkley Business Awards committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to headline sponsors Ilkley BID and Your Ilkley Radio, as well as the following valued sponsors: Bathe of Wharfedale, Brooke Financial, Clip ‘n Climb Ilkley, Craiglands Hotel, Elite Accountancy Services, Esscroft Private Nursery, Event Music Company, Fusion Chocolate, JCM Website Design, Home Instead Ilkley, Ideal Extraction, Ilkley Town Council, LCF Law, LFW Podiatry, Mark Your Occasion, One Tivoli Place Guest House, Pi Healthcare, Right at Home Ilkley, TaxAssist Accountants, Tennant & Darragh Jewellery Workshop, The Ilkley Cow, The Ilkley Shoe Company, Twisted Bars and White Top Productions.
Ann Christian from LCF Law said:
“LCF Law has proudly served the Ilkley business community for over 35 years. With deep roots in the area, we’re dedicated to supporting the community and it’s a privilege to recognise and celebrate our outstanding local businesses through our sponsorship of the Ilkley Business Awards.”
The winner of each award is as follows:
Leisure & Tourism Business of the Year sponsored by LFW Podiatry
Pretty Gritty
Best Boss of the Year – sponsored by Clip ‘n Climb Ilkley
Emily Slater, Luxe Beauty Lounge
Hair & Beauty Business of the Year - sponsored by The Ilkley Cow
Smink Makeup Artistry
Rising Star of the Year - sponsored by Ideal Extraction
Samuel Harrop - Right at Home
Long Service Staff Member Award - sponsored by Esscroft Private Nursery
Marilyn Osinski - Clarke Foley Community Hub
New Business of the Year - sponsored by Brooke Financial
Lulu's Groom Room
Professional Services Business of the Year - sponsored by Elite Accountancy Services
Skipton Building Society, The Grove
Side Hustle Business of the Year -sponsored by Tennant and Darragh Jewellery Workshop
Ilkley Creative
Health & Wellbeing Business of the Year – sponsored by Home Instead Ilkley
The Hearing Suite
B2C Business of the Year - sponsored by Ilkley Town Council
Jigsaw
B2B Business of the Year – sponsored by LCF Law
Pi Healthcare
Best Café Business of the Year - sponsored by One Tivoli Place Guest House
Outside the Box
The 2026 Ilkley Business Awards will mark the 10th anniversary of this prestigious event, promising an even more spectacular celebration! Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities or joining the organising committee for this milestone event are encouraged to contact: hello@ilkleybusinessawards.co.uk.