Nominations open for Plunkett UK's 2025 Rural Community Business Awards
News item
Co-operatives are invited to put forward nominations for Plunkett UK's 2025 Rural Business Awards awards.
Plunkett UK - a federal member of Co-operatives UK - is inviting its community business members from across the UK to nominate themselves, or an individual involved in the business, for one of this year’s nine award categories before the deadline of Friday 25 April.
The ceremony for the Lands Improvement-sponsored awards will take place on Thursday 3 July 2025 at the Royal Society of Chemistry in London.
The categories are:
• Connecting the Community Award celebrates how community businesses go the extra mile to create safe and welcoming spaces for their community. Sponsored by Utility Aid.
• Investing in Local People Award acknowledges how community businesses are investing in local people through the creation of employment, training and volunteering roles, building confidence and skills. Sponsored by David Cadwallader & Co.
• Going Green Award reflects how community businesses are striving to lessen their impact on the environment by implementing environmentally friendly initiatives. Sponsored by Suma Wholefoods.
• Keeping it Local Award celebrates how community businesses are supporting their local economy by utilising local supplies and services. Sponsored by Co-op.
• One to Watch Award showcases the community groups who don’t yet have an open and trading community business but are in the process of creating a thriving and inclusive community space. Sponsored by Wise Investment.
• Young Person Award recognises and celebrates the young people who are helping to make a difference through their infectious, and dedicated attitude. Sponsored by Bestway Wholesale.
• ‘More Than’ Award is all about the communities who are using their business to create a place that offers a diverse range of services and amenities for local people.
• Community Contribution Award showcases the individual champions, who continuously go the extra mile.
• Nina Foskett Award for Team Spirit is dedicated to the memory of our colleague Nina, who was a shining example of teamwork and encouragement by always supporting others. This award celebrates community businesses that embody the same spirit of camaraderie and collaboration.