The very best of the Isle of Wight’s business community was celebrated at the Isle of Wight Radio Best in Business Awards, which returned in style at The Sugar Store in Cowes last week.
Hosted by Isle of Wight Radio breakfast show presenters Paul Topping and Heather McCallum, the evening embraced a lively country and western theme while recognising excellence, resilience and innovation across the Island.
With a record number of nominations received this year, organisers say that simply making the shortlist was a significant achievement, reflecting the strength and diversity of local businesses.
The event was made possible thanks to the support of headline sponsor Red Squirrel, alongside a wide range of category sponsors who helped shine a spotlight on outstanding organisations and individuals.
Award Winners
Independent Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Reno Drain)
Winner: D & S Carpets
Charity of the Year (sponsored by Dough Baby)
Winner: Daisy Chains
Tourist Attraction of the Year (sponsored by Beacon Magazine)
Winner: Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
New Business of the Year (sponsored by D & S Carpets)
Winner: The Point Bembridge
Best Family Business (sponsored by Hartford Care)
Winner: Luccombe Hall Hotel
Best Island Produce (sponsored by Hillbans)
Winner: Godshill Orchards
Top Event of the Year (sponsored by Red Funnel)
Winner: Classic Isle
Contribution to the Community (sponsored by Glanvilles Damant)
Winner: Care in the Garden
Employee of the Year (sponsored by WP Recruitment)
Winner: Natalie Dexter (Capital Jewellers)
Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by HTP Apprenticeship College)
Winner: Amy Eggleton
Four public vote categories also saw strong engagement from the community, with thousands of votes cast.
- Capital Jewellers won the Customer Service Award
- The White Horse in Whitwell was named Best Roast
- RBS Autos took Tradesperson of the Year
- The Three Bishops in Brighstone was crowned Pub of the Year.
Overall Business of the Year
The evening concluded with the Overall Business of the Year award, presented by headline sponsor Red Squirrel.
This year’s prestigious honour was awarded to Wildheart Animal Sanctuary. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the sanctuary has grown from a small zoo into a leading centre for animal rescue, rehabilitation and conservation.
Its work rescuing animals from across the globe, combined with its commitment to education and community engagement, made it a standout winner among an exceptionally strong field.
Isle of Wight Radio Managing Director, Claire John, said:
“Every year the Isle of Wight Radio Best in Business Awards grows in scale and quality, and 2026 has been no exception.
“The standard of nominations was exceptionally high, and being shortlisted alone is a huge achievement for any business given the level of competition across every category.
“This year’s event at The fabulous Sugar Store in Cowes was a fantastic celebration of Island business, made even more memorable with its country and western theme.
“I’d like to thank our headline sponsor Red Squirrel, along with all our category sponsors, for their continued support.
“Congratulations to all of our winners, and especially Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, our Overall Business of the Year, for an outstanding achievement.”
