Hako proudly supports local business success as Headline Sponsor of the Wakefield Business Awards 2025

The atmosphere at this year’s Wakefield Business Awards was brimming with excitement as the city’s most inspiring companies and individuals gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in business. As the proud Headline Sponsor, Hako was delighted to witness first-hand the passion, innovation, and dedication that define Wakefield’s thriving business community.

The grand event, organised by We are Wakefield and held at the Tileyard North, showcased the very best in local enterprise. From emerging talent to established industry leaders, the awards highlighted the remarkable contributions businesses make not only to the economy but also to the community.

In her welcome speech, Hako MD Sylvie Giangolini said: “Since joining Wakefield, the business community, through my involvement with We Are Wakefield, I have been deeply inspired by the breadth of talent, resilience, entrepreneurial spirit that defines this city in creativity, innovation and determination. And tonight is a celebration of that collective brilliance. In a time when business leaders face a multitude of challenges, be they social, economic or political, it is more important than ever to pause and acknowledge our achievements.

These awards serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through vision, collaboration and perseverance. We honour the trailblazers, the entrepreneurs, the rising stars, the apprentices, the teams, the employers and of course our community champions. From categories such as business growth, multicultural excellence, digital creativity, to the one that really embodies the spirit of We Are Wakefield, the collaboration of the year.

Each nominee represents the very best of our city. So, whether you are a small, micro, medium or large business, thank you for your unwavering commitment, your tenacity, your drive. You are absolutely the heartbeat of Wakefield and together you make this city a place of opportunity, innovation and success.”

Below, we highlight the exceptional winners who took home the coveted trophies this year.

Apprentice of the Year: Megan Hale – Newport Land and Law

Sponsored by McManus Consulting, this award recognises outstanding achievement and promise in the early stages of a business career. Megan Hale’s commitment to professional growth and her impressive impact at Newport Land and Law made her a deserving winner. Her journey is a testament to the value apprentices bring to the workplace and the future of the sector.

Rising Star (Under 30): Luke Laycock – SoluPak Ltd

Handelsbanken’s sponsored category saw fierce competition, but it was Luke Laycock’s drive and innovative approach at SoluPak Ltd that set him apart. As a young professional under 30, Luke has already made significant strides, establishing himself as one to watch in the local business landscape.

Business Growth Success Story: IRM Group Ltd

The Nostell Estate sponsored this category, recognising businesses that have demonstrated substantial growth and resilience. IRM Group Ltd’s remarkable expansion and strategic achievements over the past year earned them this prestigious accolade.

Business Leader of the Year: Helen McDonald – SoluPak

Purple Pebble People sponsored the Business Leader of the Year award, which went to Helen McDonald of SoluPak. Helen’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in driving the company’s continued success and fostering a culture of excellence.

Digital/Creative Business of the Year: Chris Whittam Photography

This award, sponsored by Tileyard North, celebrates creativity and digital innovation. Chris Whittam Photography stood out for its artistic excellence and forward-thinking approach, setting new standards in the digital and creative sector.

Doing Good in Business: Juice Personnel

Sponsored by Solupak, this category applauds businesses prioritising positive social impact. Juice Personnel’s dedication to ethical practices and community wellbeing was recognised, proving that doing good and doing business can go hand in hand.

Collaboration of the Year: Prosper Wakefield District & Community Foundation Wakefield District

Sponsored by TAB Wakefield District, the Collaboration of the Year award honours impactful partnerships. Prosper Wakefield District and Community Foundation Wakefield District were commended for their joint efforts in driving collective progress for the region.

Team of the Year: SoluPak Ltd

Clear Workplace Pensions supported this category, which celebrated the cohesive and high-performing team at SoluPak Ltd. Their collaborative spirit and shared vision have been key to their impressive accomplishments.

Multicultural Excellence: Complete Care West Yorkshire Ltd

Progressive Talent CIC sponsored this category, recognising Complete Care West Yorkshire Ltd’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, setting a benchmark for embracing multiculturalism in the workplace.

Not for Profit/Charity of the Year: Wakefield BID

Sponsored by Newport Land & Law, Wakefield BID was acknowledged for its tireless efforts and positive impact on the local community, reinforcing the vital role of not-for-profit organisations.

Employer of the Year: En Route Hair and Beauty

Supported by JS Recruitment, En Route Hair and Beauty received this award for their outstanding workplace culture, employee development, and commitment to staff wellbeing.

Micro or Small Business of the Year: SoluPak Ltd

Sponsored by Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, SoluPak Ltd added yet another feather to their cap, demonstrating excellence across multiple categories and proving their agility and ambition as a small business.

Medium or Large Business of the Year: Thurston Group Ltd

The One Point’s sponsored award went to Thurston Group Ltd, whose impressive scale and continued innovation set new standards for businesses of their size.

Hako congratulates all the finalists and winners, applauding their achievements and continued contributions to Wakefield’s vibrant business community. Their stories inspire all to aim higher and work together for a brighter, more prosperous future.

Find out more about the Wakefield Business Awards here

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