Champions of business celebrate at HullBID Awards
SUCCESSFUL: The winners of the HullBID Awards 2025
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
The head of HullBID praised member businesses for building partnerships based on resilience and renewal in the face of continuing challenges.
Kathryn Shillito, HullBID executive director, told guests at the organisation’s annual awards night that the combination of adaptability and unity will enable their businesses to emerge stronger and maximise the opportunities to come during a year of positive change.
Kathryn highlighted the setting up of a combined authority for Hull and East Yorkshire as a significant development which HullBID is determined to exploit. She added that the rolling out of the £65m Hull Maritime project is already bringing benefits to businesses as people make their plans to enjoy the region’s biggest event since the UK City of Culture celebrations of 2017.
Kathryn also warned of the need for caution arising from the impact of rising costs and the changes in consumer preferences. She also noted concerns around delays in completing the Castle Street roadworks and continuing outbreaks of retail crime and antisocial behaviour, but she told how HullBID is leading the fight for improvements.
Kathryn said: “As regards the delays with Castle Street, HullBID has been at the negotiating table with National Highways from the outset, making sure businesses are prepared for any disruption. Now out challenge for specific compensation is being listened to and we await a response.
“The strength of our relationship with Humberside Police is such that we were invited to take part in the selection process for the new Chief Constable, enabling us to put forward our concerns to the people at the very top.
MAKING OUR MARK: Kathryn Shillito
“The election of a regional mayor will bring new opportunities for business and new investment. We look forward to working with the successful candidate but, as we do with all our partners, we will challenge the new mayor to make sure they understand the importance of a thriving city centre to the regional economy, the value of collaboration at every level and the ongoing need for innovation – and of course funding!”
Kathryn welcomed the Hull Maritime initiative as a vital cultural contribution which will be further enhanced by the city’s bid to become a UNESCO City of Music.
She said: “We are acutely aware that a strong cultural programme plays a crucial part in driving regeneration. It helps build a unique local identity, attracts visitors to boost the economy, creates vibrancy and serves as a catalyst for further investment.”
Kathryn said local independent businesses are responding positively, and she vowed that HullBID will support them every step of the way.
She said: “Independent developers continue to back Hull city centre and its future. The confidence of people who really get the ambitions of the city is clear as they are investing their own cash.
“As our members adapt and endure the challenges HullBID has to step up too and provide even greater value. We’re not just a helping hand with security and cleaning issues. We give guidance and support to new businesses. We compile data and write reports to attract investment.
“We are a conduit pulling together responses from our community on issues that matter, and we make our mark by shouting loudly and championing the voices of city businesses about local issues.”
HullBID Awards 2025 roll of honour
Innovation Award sponsored by Aa Global Language Services
Winner: Hull College AI Academy
The awards judges were impressed by the efforts being made by Hull College to develop the untapped potential of artificial intelligence to transform businesses, industries and lives. At the heart of the College’s work is the AI Academy – a pioneering initiative empowering businesses and individuals to thrive in the fourth revolution. The judges noted that Hull College has a clear vision of equipping businesses to work smarter, not harder, through tools and techniques driven by AI, future-proofing Hull’s workforce with cutting-edge skills and setting a new standard for innovation-driven progress.
Shortlisted: Little Astronauts and Hull Schools Library Services
The Best Place to Work Award sponsored by St Stephen’s
Winner: DoubleTree by Hilton Hull
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hull demonstrated that it has training and development at its core, constantly striving to support team members in their own areas of expertise and encouraging them to extend their knowledge in other fields. The judges recognised that at the DoubleTree, an environment has been created where people enjoy coming to work and can express themselves freely. The focus is on promoting from within and encouragement is given to learn about the operations of other departments, creating a knowledgeable and happy team.
Shortlisted: Toytown and Hull Truck Theatre
Longevity Award sponsored by Allenby Commercial
Winner: F R Scott Limited
Hidden away at the back of St Stephen’s, F R Scott has stood proud while so much around it has changed. Through four generations of the same family, the company has become recognised as the region’s largest independent supplier of fixings, fasteners and ironmongery. It has also resisted any urge to sell up or relocate and after 80 years it remains a key part of the city centre, still offering good, old fashioned, quality and service, whilst adopting modern technologies to keep at the forefront of industry advancements.
Shortlisted: Thieving Harry’s and Kingston Theatre Hotel
Contribution to the Community Award sponsored by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside
Winner: City of Hull Street Angels
The City of Hull Street Angels volunteers work tirelessly to support vulnerable individuals facing homelessness, substance abuse issues or simply needing a safe space. The Street Angels have been integral in fostering a sense of care and solidarity in Hull and are an invaluable resource for the community. They have forged strong links with local authorities, charities and organisations to address the issues of those in need. With both practical assistance and compassion, they promote long-term positive changes that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Shortlisted: Lush and Good Things Market
The Best in Food and Drink Award sponsored by Hull Trains
Winner: Thieving Harry’s
A stalwart of Humber Street, Thieving Harry’s attributes its success to innovative cuisine, unique drink experiences, a commitment to quality local ingredients, affordability, exceptional customer service, community engagement, a dynamic events programme and an unparalleled ambiance with the best views. With an ability to adapt and experiment, introducing exciting events and culinary concepts, they’ve stayed ahead of trends to meet the needs of their patrons, with their welcoming and inclusive environment which fosters a real community spirit.
Shortlisted: Patisserie House and Everything Toastie
Stylish or Welcoming Premises Award sponsored by Hull City Council
Winner: Nanouk
Sitting in Market Place in Hull’s historic Old Town, Nanouk’s aim is simple – to be first for functions with a beautiful, individual and vibrant setting which the judges recognised delivers perfection for a diverse range of events from weddings to baby showers and more. The stunning events venue sat vacant for 18 months prior to its transformation by the current owners into the beautiful botanical setting it is today, and its uniqueness continues to build a regular customer base.
Shortlisted: Cherry’s Bar and Lili + Mila’s Empawrium
Customer Service Excellence Award sponsored by FigFlex
Winner: Reach Recruitment
The judges could only be impressed by client feedback which underlined how Reach Recruitment is committed to building long-term relationships rather than just delivering quick fixes. Their dedication is the reason why 100% of clients expressed satisfaction with their service and professionalism and 93% rated their out of hours support as excellent. That commitment and exceptional customer service also extends to Reach Recruitment’s candidates, whose career progression is a priority supported throughout by training and development to support upskilling.
Shortlisted: Artisan Flowers and DoubleTree by Hilton Hull
Commitment to Health and Wellbeing Award sponsored by Segal’s Jewellers
Winner: CatZero
Established in 2008, CatZero works with people of all ages and changing peoples’ lives remains at the heart of what they do. Promoting healthy food choices, tackling health issues and giving support with debt and housing forms part of their extensive programmes. Established in 2008, CatZero initially worked with young people not in work, education or training to develop wide-ranging skills prior to embarking on a challenging sailing experience. Fast forward to 2025 and CatZero has continued the legacy of promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Shortlisted: Hull Minster Welcome Café and Fit24
Outstanding Employee or Team Award sponsored by Grosvenor Casino
Winner: Tina Swann, C4DI
As C4DI’s community engagement manager, Tina Swann is always there to support her colleagues, tenants and visitors no matter how wild or unusual their request may seem! Her can-do attitude and genuine desire to help makes everyone feel valued and taken care of. Tina plays a pivotal role in ensuring everyone’s ambitions are embraced and nurtured. She listens, encourages and helps people achieve their goals, fostering a sense of belonging and community throughout and showing the same dedication to hosting external events to bring people together.
Shortlisted: Civic 1 and St Stephen’s Security
Outstanding Contribution Award sponsored by KFM Recruitment
Winner: The Deep
Welcoming over 450,000 visitors annually, The Deep expects to receive its 10 millionth visitor in spring this year. The attraction has cemented its place as the most successful Millennium project in the UK with a global reputation for achieving the highest standards of animal care. The Deep has proudly remained a financially independent charity for over 20 years and also established an education award in memory of the Honorary Alderman David Gemmell OBE, who developed The Deep’s concept with vision and dedication.
Shortlisted: Ferens Art Gallery and Hull Truck Theatre
Judges’ Special Recognition Award
Winner: Civic 1 and Humberside Police.
When Hull city centre was one of many areas of the UK devastated by riots in August 2024, the response was quick and effective. The heroic actions of the police protected the public and limited damage to businesses. Combined with this was the support from Civic 1, the city’s CCTV hub, whose clear communications with the police and users of the HullBID radio helped prevent more devastation. The awards judges therefore decided to recognise the work of both organisations in supporting city centre businesses.