197 Businesses Honoured in 2025 King’s Awards for Enterprise, Celebrating British Innovation and Growth
Nearly 200 of the UK’s most dynamic and innovative companies have been honoured in the prestigious King’s Awards for Enterprise, with firms from Stirling to Somerset recognised for their outstanding contributions to business, innovation, sustainability, and social mobility.
A total of 197 companies received 199 awards this year, with two businesses—Sonardyne International (Hampshire) and Delta Fire (Norfolk)—earning recognition in two separate categories. These leading firms, along with others across the UK and Channel Islands, are being applauded for driving economic growth and supporting the Government’s Plan for Change.
Now in its 59th year, the awards programme, formerly known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, remains the UK’s highest official recognition for business excellence. Since its inception in 1965, over 8,000 companies have received the honour.
This year’s awards highlight the remarkable achievements of UK enterprises across four categories:
International Trade (116 awards)
Innovation (46 awards)
Sustainable Development (27 awards)
Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility (10 awards)
Crucially, 88% of the winners (176 businesses) are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 14% (27 businesses) classified as micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees.
“These winners represent the very best of British business talent,” said Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports. “I wish them every success as they continue to grow, innovate, and prosper. Their work at home and abroad is helping to boost the UK economy and inspire future generations.”
The awards align with the Government’s broader strategy to foster economic resilience through SMEs. Recent policy initiatives include extending business rates relief, protecting small firms from National Insurance increases, launching over 200 new Banking Hubs, and increasing government-backed financing via organisations such as the British Business Bank.
“Smaller businesses are the beating heart of our growth mission,” Thomas added. “Supporting them to overcome barriers and realise their potential is an absolute priority. A mere 1% annual increase in SME productivity over the next five years could grow the UK economy by £94 billion.”
Among the standout recipients is Sonardyne International, a global leader in underwater technology for offshore energy, maritime defence, and ocean science. The company was recognised for both International Trade and Sustainable Development.
“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this recognition,” said Managing Director Graham Brown. “It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone at Sonardyne. We’re proud to build innovative products for our blue planet while doing business sustainably.”
Also receiving dual awards is Delta Fire, a Norfolk-based manufacturer of firefighting equipment. Celebrated for Innovation and Sustainable Development, the firm has grown from a small workshop into a state-of-the-art, net-zero energy facility exporting products worldwide.
“Innovation and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do,” said Founder Ian Gardner. “These awards are recognition of 35 years of dedication from our incredible team.” Other recipients include:
Level Peaks (Hereford) – Recognised for International Trade. Managed by former British Special Forces veterans, the company supplies advanced defence and security equipment to the UK Government and allied nations.
Mixergy (Oxford) – Honoured for Innovation for developing an intelligent hot water tank that integrates with the energy grid to improve efficiency and cut consumer bills.
Throughout the year, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants will present awards locally to the winners. Additionally, a representative from each business will be invited to a Royal reception, underscoring the significance of the accolade. The full list of 2025 awardees is available in the London Gazette.
