The HEY Business Awards 2024 celebrated Hull’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, with leading businesses, start-ups, and individuals recognised for their contributions across various industries.
Entrepreneur of the Year
James Crumpton of Laundry Box UK was named Entrepreneur of the Year for his transformative impact on a family laundrette business rooted in Hull. Returning to the city after commercial roles in London, James brought rapid growth and innovation, changing the perception of laundrettes. “Turnover has gone through the roof, and we’ve achieved UK firsts. Dot Cotton has gone out of the window!” he said.
Small Business and Lifetime Achievement
Hessle-based Wild Intervention, which provides youth outreach services, was named Small Business of the Year. Founder Caine Wild said, “I’ve proved to young people that the impossible is possible.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to David Keel, a key figure behind C4Di and Sonoco-Trident. Reflecting on his global impact and local roots, he said, “It was marvellous to be recognised by the city I was born in.”
Other Big Winners
Rubicon Bridge, based in C4Di, won the Innovation Award for its regulatory compliance tool, soon to launch globally on Amazon. Managing Director Kathryn Szymonowicz said the recognition highlighted the team’s resilience and ambition.
The Growth Award went to Care Connection Partners, which has expanded rapidly in three years, now employing 300 staff. Founder Deborah Stock credited her team for the success, saying, “This is acknowledgement we are doing it right.”
Daniel Alexander Motor Group, a luxury car specialist, won Start-Up Business of the Year, with director Daniel Watts expressing pride in achieving the accolade within just two years of trading.
- Best Place to Work: Reckitt
- Environmental and Sustainability Award: Ideal Heating
- Charity of the Year: Tigers Sport and Education Trust
- Team of the Year: Wescot Credit Services
- Large Business of the Year: Ideal Heating
- Rising Star: Chloe Lawson
The awards showcased the strength, resilience, and creativity of Hull’s business community, with organisers praising the innovation and dedication driving the region’s economy forward.
