Hosted by acclaimed comedian Hal Cruttenden, the black-tie ceremony unveiled 16 exceptional winners - each demonstrating the strength, innovation and ambition that continue to position Sussex as a powerhouse business region.

Now in its 37th year, the Sussex Business Awards has firmly cemented its reputation as the region’s foremost celebration of commercial excellence. This year’s highest honour, Company of the Year, was presented to Dualit - the iconic British manufacturer of premium kitchen and catering equipment based in Crawley - in recognition of its outstanding performance, enduring craftsmanship and significant contribution to the region’s economic success.

Maarten Hoffmann, Managing Director of Platinum Media Group, said: “The winners truly represent the very best of Sussex. The calibre of entries this year was extraordinary and the judging discussions were some of the most passionate and engaged we’ve ever experienced.

“Selecting just 16 winners from such an exceptional group was no easy task. Every finalist should feel immensely proud - but our winners have demonstrated an outstanding level of innovation, ambition and impact that sets them apart. They are a powerful testament to the strength and diversity of the Sussex business community.”

The judging panel - comprising representatives from esteemed sponsors including EMC Corporate Finance, DMH Stallard, FRP Corporate Finance, Jensten Insurance Brokers, KPMG, Kreston Reeves, MHA, Monan Gozzett, The English Soap Company, MDHUB, True Potential, Chichester College Group, Growth Animals Marketing, Benchmark Financial Planning and Innovation Capital Team - examined each entry with the utmost care to identify the most exceptional businesses.