WONGS shone as the overall winner of the Merseyside Independent Business (MIB) Awards.
The family-run Liverpool jeweller took the crown at the event which saw 500 people gather at The Titanic Hotel.
Across 13 categories, winners also included Hope Street Hotel, Tech business MyCardium AI and mental health organisation Evolving Mindset.
The Merseyside Independent Business Awards were founded in 2013 by Morecrofts Solicitors to recognise and celebrate other independents across the city region.
Alison Lobb, Managing Partner at Morecrofts Solicitors, said: “Independent businesses are the backbone of Merseyside’s economy, and it’s incredibly important to recognise the resilience and innovation these businesses bring to our region. We are thrilled to celebrate their successes, and it is incredible to see the strong community spirit which unites these diverse enterprises.”
The headline sponsor of the MIB Awards is The Liverpool BID Company. Announcing Wongs as the winner, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communications, Katie Bentley, said: “Judges said this business encapsulated everything on the checklist for an amazing independent.
“Their entry demonstrated excellent client care, approachability, engaging marketing campaigns and commitment to investment in the city region.
“Judges noted that the business in question has built a recognisable brand, while remaining local and offering its clients exceptional service.”
Full list of winners
Trades or Manufacturing Business of the Year
Sponsored by JEC Business Finance
Winner: Kimpton
Professional Services Business of the Year
Sponsored by Butterworth Spengler Insurance Group
Winner: Sutcliffe
Culture & Tourism Business of the Year
Sponsored by Merseyrail
Winner: Hope Street Hotel
Commended: Blackstock Market
Best Creative Business
Sponsored by Forresters IP
Winner: MyCardium AI
Children Focussed Business of the Year
Sponsored by One Knowsley
Winner: Evolving Mindset
Commended: Forget Me Not
Retailer of the Year
Sponsored by The Guide Liverpool
Winner: Wong Jewellers
Best Start-up Business
Sponsored by Bruntwood
Winner: Unity Lives
Bar of the Year
Sponsored by Everton Stadium
Winner: Arts Bar
Food Venue of the Year
Sponsored by B&L Creative
Winner: Squash
Commended: The Watering Can
Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year
Sponsored by Titanic Hotel Liverpool
Winner: Katumba Drumming & Movement
Employer of the Year
Sponsored by Handelsbanken
Winner: Caring Connections
Digital & Technology Business of the Year
Sponsored by DSG Accountants
Winner: MyCardium AI
Business Person of the Year
Sponsored by FPC
Winner: Kiera Vogel, Senate Group
Overall Merseyside Independent Business of the Year
Sponsored by The Liverpool BID Company
Wongs Jewellers