Crunch time as winners of Kent business awards announced
Winners of the Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards were celebrated at a gala dinner attended by more than 250 of the county’s business leaders.
Now in their 19th year, the annual awards, run by Kent Invicta Chamber and Kent County Council, included 10 categories.
Canterbury-based Kent Crisps, led by owner Laura Bounds, MBE, scooped Business of the Year.
WW Martin Ltd, based in Ramsgate, took Construction Project of the Year for its work on the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate.
Employer of the Year went to East Kent Colleges Group, while Patrick Devine of Devine Direct Labour was named Entrepreneur of the Year.
Excellence in Customer Service went to Business Computer Solutions of Newington near Ramsgate, and Family Business of the Year was scooped by County Enforcement & Security, which has its HQ in Rochester.
Inventex, based near Ashford, took the top spot for Innovative Business of the Year, while Most Promising New Business went to TPF Recruitment in Herne Bay.
Success in International Trade 2024 was won by Maidstone-based Kemet International and Sustainability & Decarbonisation Business of the Year was awarded to Walker Construction (UK), which is located near Hythe.
Mark Quinn, Chairman of Canterbury-based Quinn Estates received the gong for Outstanding Contribution to Business in Kent Award from Kent County Council for his long term commitment to promoting the county’s development industry and local communities.
Kent Chamber Chief Executive Tudor Price said: “Congratulations to all the winners and finalists who continue to inspire us with their resilience and commitment to the county.
“Your achievements are a testament to your hard work, and we look forward to seeing your continued success.”
Kent County Council Leader Roger Gough added: “The businesses recognised at the dinner reflect the innovation, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit that define Kent.
“Their contributions not only strengthen our economy but enrich our communities.
“Thank you for making Kent a thriving hub for business.”
The gala dinner, sponsored by accountancy and business advisory services company Evelyn Partners, was held at Westenhanger Castle in Hythe on Thursday 21st November.
Award sponsors included Azets, Brimstone Site Investigation, Crowe, Eurotunnel, Knights, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Ashford, MidKent College, NFU Mutual - Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield, Oak Creative and Stagecoach South East.