North West Family Business Awards

Shed One Distillery has made the finals in TWO categories at The North West Family Business Awards!

We're proud to report that we're finalists in:
1. Food & Drink Producers
2. Leisure & Tourism

Now we have to wait for the judges' visits and then the award ceremony in May. Wish us luck!

Record number of entries for 2026

Co-founder and Director of The Family Business Community, Sue Howorth, commented: “The quality of this year’s entries made the judges’ decisions extremely challenging. The finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements. We’re looking forward to celebrating with all the family businesses in our region." 

A competitive year, with a record number of family businesses from across the region entering the awards. Shed One Distillery stood out among the strong contenders, securing a place as a North West Family Business Awards finalist. 

The awards ceremony will take place on Friday, May 8th, 2026, at The Rum Warehouse, Titanic Hotel in Liverpool. The event will be hosted by Co-Founders Dave Clarkson and Sue Howorth of The Family Business Community, alongside renowned food and drink writer and presenter, Nigel Barden. 

Dave Clarkson, co-director, added: “We are thrilled by the level of commitment and attention to detail shown by all the applicants. The strength and diversity of the entries have truly impressed us." 

Finalists will soon receive a visit from a specially selected panel of judges, who will assess the businesses before making their final decisions.  

About the North West Family Business Awards: 

The North West Family Business Awards are organised by The Family Business Community. A trusted global network supporting family businesses through connecting supporting, advising, peer-to-peer opportunities and sharing of insights across generations.  

The 2026 awards will be co-hosted by Sue Howorth, Dave Clarkson, and food and drink broadcaster Nigel Barden. Barden is known for promoting British ingredients and artisan producers through his role as chairman of judges for The Great Taste Awards and his appearances on the Simon Mayo Drivetime Show.