Posted by
Vida Ragbir
The Experience Guildford Business Awards celebrate the town centre’s outstanding businesses and the people behind them, recognising excellence across nine categories. Hosted at the Harbour Hotel on 16 July, the ceremony welcomed more than 200 guests. A panel of local experts assessed entries for innovation, impact and community contribution, while the night itself offered a chance for businesses to network, applaud their peers and showcase Guildford’s vibrant economy.
Sustainability Award winner- Bird & Blend Tea Co. Category judge Ben McCallan, director of Surrey Community Energy said: "Guildford store offsets about 36 tonnes of CO₂ each year and, more importantly, cuts emissions directly with cycle-to-work and rail rewards, EV deliveries, no-fly travel, careful supplier choices and food-waste projects. Its all-round effort has earned it a well-above-average B Corp certification, joining 160+ other Surrey businesses committed to high social and environmental standards."
Community Award winner- The Guildford Institute. Category judge Councillor Stephen Hives said: “The Guildford Institute champions community wellbeing by offering affordable courses, free talks, and social activities that bring people together and combat isolation. Its lively programme—spanning art, history, languages, wellbeing and more—welcomes hundreds of residents each week, making the Institute a true hub for learning, friendship and local support.”
Night-Time Economy Award winner- H Bar. Category judge Ryan Soper said “H Bar is the newest in the category, and they have clearly turned around what was previously a pretty run down bar. I know it now attracts a great student crowd and they engage with various safety initiatives.”
People’s Choice Award winner- Olivo, who received 340 votes! Total votes this year was 2000! Second most votes venue with 327 was Coffee Culture, 250 votes Three Pigeons and 206 Art & Grind Café.
Customer Service Award winner- Tortilla (team award) and Adedayo Adesina (individual). Judge Helen Planeta Paine, a founder of Planeta Learning and Development said: “Tortilla stood out for their shared passion for flawless customer service. Every team member shows the same commitment and warmth, using smart tech to boost sales and keep customers coming back. Genuine and driven, they consistently deliver top-tier experiences. Adedayo Adesina pairs top-level customer-service training with daily excellence—going the extra mile for guests and colleagues, refining every detail, and delivering it all with a winning smile.”
Independent Business Award winner- Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. Category judge James Carpenter, founder of Retail Leadership Unboxed said: “A truly standout entry. Their £7m refurbishment, raised through sheer resilience and determination, underlines their ambition and community commitment. They’ve kept their café open throughout the disruption, moved locations multiple times, and maintained customer connection at every stage. Their tone is humble but confident. Every team member seems to live and breathe the mission. They’ve stayed open longer than other venues during tough periods, and the accessibility upgrades (e.g. lifts, soundproof rooms, baby-changing facilities) reflect the inclusive future they’re building. This is independence as social responsibility, not just commercial agility.”
New Business of the Year Award winner- Rita Botanicals. Category judge Malcolm Gilbertson, founder and creative director of Silverback said “Rita Botanicals scored full marks, demonstrating a genuine passion for her craft and her business, backed up by a wonderful story centred around her Nonna (Italian for Grandmother) – plants for purpose. Rita’s innovative Terrarium Workshops and the colour coded plant to help customers are inspired!”
Business of the Year Award winner- G Live. Category judges Keith Churchouse and Esther Dadswell said: “Some fantastic entries this year, and a close-run decision, however, we thought that G Live had a really cohesive vision of what they wanted to achieve both now, and looking forward, to continue to be inclusive for all. A really inspiring entry and deserved winners.“
A special Long Service segment honoured nine employees whose combined careers span 140 years.
Experience Guildford’s Marketing & Events Manager, Vida Ragbir, shared her excitement following the event: “I’m thrilled with the turnout and extend my warmest congratulations to all the finalists and winners. It was fantastic to see such a great group of people come together to celebrate the hard work and dedication within our community. I hope everyone enjoyed the evening as much as I did. A special thank-you to our judges, whose time and careful consideration made all the difference in selecting the winners.”
A big thank you to the Harbour Hotel for hosting the event so beautifully. The venue was absolutely perfect, and the team ensured everything ran smoothly, providing an unforgettable atmosphere.
A special thanks to our fantastic host, Nate Rodgers, for keeping the energy high and guiding us through the evening with charm and professionalism.
The evening was further enhanced by the talented Rachel Marquez, whose entertainment kept the atmosphere lively and vibrant throughout.
Event photographs were taken by the incredibly talented Luke Whatley-Bigg, whose eye for detail captured the evening perfectly, leaving us with memories to cherish.