Havering Council celebrated the very best of the Borough's business community at the Havering Small Business Awards 2026 on Wednesday 23 September.
Group photo taken at the Small Business Awards 2026
The event recognises the entrepreneurs, employers and organisations that make a vital contribution to the local economy.
Held at Lumiere Cinema, Romford, the awards brought together businesses, sponsors, partners and community leaders for an evening of celebration, showcasing the innovation, resilience and ambition that continue to drive Havering's thriving small business sector.
The awards received an outstanding response once again this year, with businesses from across the Borough competing in ten categories covering everything from best hospitality, best social enterprise and best shopfront.
Councillor Robert Whitton, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, in the opening address, said:
"Our small businesses are the backbone of Havering's economy and play an essential role in making our Borough a great place to live, learn and earn and for businesses to invest, grow and thrive.
"The quality of entries this year was exceptional and demonstrates the talent, determination and entrepreneurial spirit that exists across Havering.
"Congratulations to all of our winners, finalists and nominees. You should all be incredibly proud of your achievements."
The winners were:
- Best Newcomer (supported by Havering Chamber of Commerce and Industry): Varleys
- Best Small or Independent Business (sponsored by Romford BID): InkTree Education
- Best Beauty or Service Business: Utopia Beauty and Advanced Skincare
- Best Takeaway: Kaani Kaana
- Best Hospitality Business (sponsored by LWC Hills Prospect): The Hop Inn
- Best Tradesperson (sponsored by Marlborough Highways): Paul Perfect Heating Ltd
- Best Customer Service (sponsored by Kaani Kaana): Bear with the Hair
- Best Shopfront (sponsored by Sureserve Compliance South): Best Sellers
- Best Social Enterprise or Community Interest Company (CIC) (sponsored by Adecco): Talk FC CIC
The final award of the evening, Havering Small Business of the Year 2026, was selected from the category winners by the judging panel.
The title of Havering Small Business of the Year 2026 was awarded to Paul Perfect Heating Ltd, this year’s Best Tradesperson, in recognition of how relentlessly Paul works to deliver excellent customer services and supports the local community. This business impressed the judges with Paul’s commitment to sustainability, long term business planning and what a great asset it is to Havering.
Paul said:
“It’s been an amazing year, and this is an amazing achievement.
“I’m so grateful to represent Havering and win these two lovely awards.
“I love serving the community.”
Brendon Penn, New Business Manager at The Orange Bin Company, the event's headline sponsor, said:
"The Orange Bin Company is proud to support the Havering Small Business Awards and celebrate the businesses that contribute so much to the Borough's economy and communities.
"The calibre of this year's finalists demonstrates the strength, innovation and resilience of Havering's business community, and we congratulate all those recognised this evening."
The Havering Small Business Awards are organised by Havering Council and supported by a range of local sponsors and partners committed to championing business growth across the Borough.