The North West’s premier celebration of business achievement returned with great success on Friday evening, as the North West Business Awards 2025 recognised the outstanding contributions of enterprises, entrepreneurs, and innovators across the region.

The ceremony, hosted at the White Horse Hotel in Derry/Londonderry, brought together the business community to celebrate excellence, creativity, and innovation. Organised by the City Centre Initiative in partnership with the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, and proudly supported by headline sponsor Bank of Ireland, the awards attracted nominations from businesses across every sector of the North West economy.

From hospitality and retail to technology, education, and the creative industries, the event highlighted the diversity and strength of the local business landscape.

In a joint statement, the organisers commented:

“The North West Business Awards showcase the talent, dedication, and ambition that define our region’s businesses. Every nominee, finalist, and winner exemplifies hard work, innovation, and community focus. We congratulate each of them for their achievements.”

“We extend our sincere thanks to our headline sponsor, Bank of Ireland, and to all our category sponsors. Their continued support ensures that local business excellence can be recognised and celebrated. To everyone who entered this year, whether or not you reached the shortlist, we encourage you to keep striving—next year could be your moment.”

Brilliance in Business Award: Foyleside Shopping Centre

The evening’s highest accolade, the Brilliance in Business Award, was presented to Foyleside Shopping Centre. The award recognises Foyleside’s exceptional contribution to the North West through sustained investment, innovative retail strategies, and its commitment to providing a premier shopping destination. Foyleside has consistently supported local businesses, driven footfall into the city, and contributed to both the economic and social wellbeing of the community.

2025 North West Business Awards – Winners

  • Young Business Person of the Year: Claire Hamilton, The Infuencer Hub

  • Educational Partnership Award: Fujitsu

  • North West Restaurant of the Year: Moksh Indian Restaurant

  • North West Retailer of the Year: Kular Fashion

  • North West Hotel of the Year: The Ebrington

  • Creative Industries Business of the Year: The Playhouse

  • Contribution to the North West Economy: McColgan’s Quality Foods

  • Innovation & Technology Award: Hunter Apparel

  • North West Pub of the Year (Public Vote): Iona House

  • Sustainability Champions Award: Repair & Share Foyle

  • Creative Marketer of the Year: Foyleside Shopping Centre

  • North West Regional College Higher Level Apprentice of the Year: Shauna Wilson (Business and Enterprise FD)

  • Business Hero: Ruth McPhillips, Mini Melo Beats Sensory Sessions

  • Small Business of the Year (Joint Winners): Cellofella & Deluxe Irish Tours & Transfers

  • Large Business of the Year: Alchemy Technology Services

  • Strabane BID Business of the Year: J Arthur Electrical

  • Brilliance in Business: Foyleside Shopping Centre

The 2025 North West Business Awards celebrated the innovation, resilience, and ambition that continue to drive the region forward, shining a spotlight on businesses that make a lasting impact on their communities.