The 18th Annual Business Awards, held on Friday, 12th May 2023, was an evening filled with emotion, excitement, and a strong sense of community. Celebrating the successes of local businesses from Seaford, Newhaven, and Peacehaven, the event brought together over 100 VIPs, members, and guests at the Jerrom Hall, Peacehaven. Organised by Newhaven Chamber of Commerce in association with Seaford and Peacehaven Chambers, this prestigious event showcased the remarkable achievements of companies and individuals who contribute to the local economy and community.
A Star-Studded Evening
The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including His Majesty the King’s representative, the Deputy Lieutenant for East Sussex, Mr. David Allam, Newhaven Mayor Paul Boswell, Seaford Deputy Mayor Cllr Liz Boorman, and Peacehaven Mayor LucyJo Symonds. Also in attendance were Deputy Chief of Mission Mrs. To Minh Thu from the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the UK and Ireland, Be Thi Ut Nguyen, First Secretary of the Embassy, MP Maria Caulfield, and all three Presidents of the Chambers of Commerce.
Our host for the evening was John Young, whose expertise and flair as a past BBC news journalist, made the evening even more exceptional with some heartwarming impromptu interviews with some of our winners.
Strong Local Support
The Seahaven Business Awards were generously supported by local sponsors, with categories judged by the two MPs, the Presidents of the Newhaven, Seaford, and Peacehaven’s Chamber of Commerce, and Graham Peters, Chairman of the Newhaven Enterprise Zone. The collaboration between the three chambers demonstrates the importance of local businesses in creating better lives for everyone and fostering a sense of community.
The Winners of the 18th Seahaven Business Awards
The awards recognized exceptional businesses and individuals that demonstrated resilience, innovation, commitment to staff, and who take great pride in being part of our community. The winners were presented with trophies made by goldsmith Mike Shorer, each weighing 4kg and made from solid aircraft-grade alloy, anodised gold, hand engraved, and hand enamelled.
Business of the Year
The most prestigious category, Business of the Year, sponsored by The Newhaven Enterprise Zone, recognised overall excellence in business performance, innovation, and community involvement. The winners were (and all from Seaford):
Ist – Inle Home
2nd – Whittfit Training
3rd – Seaford Town Market
President’s Award for Creative Enterprise
Sponsored by Mike Shorer Fine Jewellery, the President’s Award for Creative Enterprise celebrated businesses that excelled in creativity and innovation. The winners included:
1st – Julie’s Art of Noise
2nd – Got Buns Huns
3rd – (joint) Magpie Art UK and James Cox Music
Best New Business
The Best New Business category, sponsored by the Newhaven Enterprise Centre, recognised outstanding new companies that have made a significant impact in the local economy. The winners were:
1st – Pelham Barbers
2nd – Whittfit Training
3rd – Newleaf Camper Conversions
Best Environmental Business
Sponsored by Fine Marketing, the Best Environmental Business category honoured companies that demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The winners included:
1st – Havens Food Cooperative
2nd – Take Good Care
3rd – Jeavons Toffee
Best Eatery
The Best Eatery category, sponsored by Experience It Now Travel, celebrated establishments offering exceptional dining experiences. The winners were:
1st – West Quay Cafe
2nd – The Viceroy
3rd – The Bengal Palace Restaurant
Business Person of the Year
Sponsored by Swindells Chartered Accountants, the Business Person of the Year category recognised exceptional individuals who made a significant impact on their businesses and the local community. The winners included:
1st – Yahya Al-Hattabi from the Yemeni Coffee House
2nd – Levente Novaki from La Maison Mobile Catering
3rd – Megan Turk of Got Buns Huns
Best Customer Service
The Best Customer Service category, sponsored by The Sussex Sign Company, honoured businesses that excelled in providing exceptional customer experiences. The winners were:
1st – Rachel Ayres of Seaford’s Secret Fairy’s Bookshop
2nd Kempton House Day Centre
3rd – (joint) CmdShiftR and CTLA
Giving Back to the Community
In addition to celebrating the achievements of local businesses, the event also raised money for the Hillcrest Community Centre through a silent auction and raffle.
A Special Thanks to the Sponsors
The Seahaven Business Awards would not have been possible without the generous support of key sponsors, including the Charles Cox Group, Veolia, Meeching Estate Agents, Cleankill, V R Flowers & Son, Helen Macauley, Arlettes Florists, Seahaven FM, and 2nd Cup of Tea.
A Night to Remember
The 18th Seahaven Business Awards was a night to remember, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of local businesses and individuals. The event served as a reminder of the importance of supporting and nurturing the local economy while fostering a sense of community and pride in the Seahaven area. Congratulations to all the winners, and here’s to another successful year of business in the Seahaven region!
More photos on our gallery.
