Celebrating Business Excellence at the Ards Peninsula Business Awards 2026
Newtownards Chamber of Trade celebrated the outstanding achievements of local businesses at a glittering awards ceremony hosted at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel.
The very best of Ards and the Peninsula business community came together on Friday 12 June at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel for the highly anticipated Ards Peninsula Business Awards 2026, organised by Newtownards Chamber of Trade and proudly supported by lead sponsor Ards Business Hub.
The annual awards recognise and celebrate the innovation, resilience, entrepreneurship and community impact demonstrated by businesses and individuals across Ards and the Peninsula region. With finalists representing a diverse range of sectors, the evening showcased the strength and vibrancy of the local economy.Guests enjoyed an evening of celebration, networking and recognition as winners were announced across 18 categories, highlighting businesses and individuals who continue to make a significant contribution to the area.
The event was hosted by broadcaster Holly Hamilton, who spoke proudly of her Ards roots and her delight at returning home to celebrate the achievements of the local business community. Guests also enjoyed a special appearance from Irish Olympic gold medallist Rhys McClenaghan, who presented the Sports & Wellbeing Business of the Year Award.The awards attracted strong support from across the region, with local councillors, business leaders and community representatives in attendance, alongside Jim Shannon, demonstrating the importance of the event in recognising and championing local enterprise.
Speaking at the event, representatives from Newtownards Chamber of Trade praised the exceptional standard of entries and the commitment shown by local businesses in driving economic growth, supporting employment and enhancing community life throughout the region.
The coveted Outstanding Business of the Year Award, sponsored by PMB Accountants, was presented to Echlinville Distillery, recognising its continued excellence, innovation and contribution to the local economy.
Meanwhile, the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Newtownards Chamber of Trade, was awarded to Sam Jordan in recognition of his longstanding contribution to business and the wider community.
The evening also demonstrated the generosity of the local business community, with more than £1,500 raised for Action Mental Health, helping to support the charity’s vital work across Northern Ireland.
Best Company to Work For Award (sponsored by Eakin Healthcare)
Winner: Peninsula Care Services
Highly Commended: Mortgage IQ
Best Creative Business (sponsored by Peninsula Care)
Winner: Abbey Films
Highly Commended: Creative Change
Best Employee Award (sponsored by Ulster Property Sales)
Winner: James Dowling, Stairlift Solutions NI
Highly Commended: Kris Gaw and Poppy Tate
Best Family Business (sponsored by AbbeyAutoline)
Winner: Corries Farm Butchers
Highly Commended: A Slice of Heaven
Best Licensed Premises (sponsored by McKeown & Co Solicitors)
Winner: Grace Neill’s
Highly Commended: Sugarcane
Best New Business (sponsored by Ards Business Hub)
Winner: Renatus Collective
Best Non-Licensed Hospitality Business (sponsored by We’re Sure)
Winner: Goose Coffee House
Highly Commended: Knotts Bakery
Best Tourism Provider (sponsored by Bank of Ireland)
Winner: Sandycove
Growth Business Award – Over 10 Employees (sponsored by Ards and North Down Borough Council)
Winner: G.S. Stothers Smoke Ventilation Specialists
Growth Business Award – Under 10 Employees (sponsored by Ards and North Down Borough Council)
Winner: Velocity Pro Gear
Contribution to the Local Community Award (sponsored by Love Local Comber)
Winner: EUROSPAR Hardford Link
Customer Service Excellence Award (sponsored by Knotts Bakery)
Winner: Peninsula Care Services
Excellence in Hair & Beauty (sponsored by That Prize Guy)
Winner: Sharon Malcolm Hairdressing
Outstanding Independent Retailer (sponsored by Specsavers)
Winner: Indie Füde
Purpose Driven Organisation of the Year (sponsored by BNI)
Winner: North Down Women’s Aid
Sports & Wellbeing Business of the Year (presented by Rhys McClenaghan)
Winner: Limitless Fitness Female Only Gym
The Responsible Business Award (sponsored by Northstone NI)
Winner: Age NI
Outstanding Business of the Year (sponsored by PMB Accountants)
Winner: Echlinville Distillery
Lifetime Achievement Award (sponsored by Newtownards Chamber of Trade)
Winner: Sam Jordan
Thank You
Newtownards Chamber of Trade extended its sincere thanks to all sponsors, judges, finalists and attendees for supporting this year’s awards and helping to shine a spotlight on the businesses and individuals making a positive impact across the Ards Peninsula.
The Chamber also acknowledged the ongoing support of lead sponsor Ards Business Hub, whose commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and business growth continues to strengthen the local business community.