Chelmsford Businesses Celebrated at BID Business Awards 2026

Chelmsford’s business community came together on 3 June 2026 at Chelmsford Cathedral to celebrate excellence at the Chelmsford For You BID Business Awards 2026 - an evening dedicated to recognising the organisations and individuals helping the city centre thrive.

A Night Celebrating Business Excellence

Hosted by Chelmsford For You, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), the awards are now an established highlight in the business calendar, celebrating the strength, diversity and resilience of Chelmsford’s city centre economy.

The awards process brought together public nominations, shortlisting by an independent panel and a community vote, ensuring that local businesses themselves - and the customers they serve - were at the heart of the celebration.

With 12 award categories, the 2026 programme recognised businesses of all sizes and sectors, showcasing the depth of quality across retail, hospitality, professional services and more.

Recognising Innovation and New Enterprise 

One of the standout categories of the evening, the Best New Business Award, highlighted the energy and entrepreneurial spirit shaping Chelmsford’s evolving city centre.

Sponsored by Invest Chelmsford, the award was presented to Smoke & Dough, recognising its impact as a dynamic and innovative new addition to the local business landscape.

The category also celebrated the achievements of shortlisted businesses City Space and The Social, reflecting the strength and diversity of Chelmsford’s growing enterprise base.

Putting People at the Heart of Success

New for 2026, the Employee of the Year category shone a spotlight on the individuals driving success across Chelmsford’s businesses.

Recognising dedication, professionalism and consistently high standards, the award celebrated those making a meaningful difference day-to-day. Certificates of recognition were awarded to finalists, with two winners announced: The Wine Cellar and HOME Partnership.

A Strong Future for Chelmsford’s Business Community

The BID Business Awards continue to play an important role in showcasing the businesses that make Chelmsford a vibrant place to live, work and visit. By celebrating success and recognising achievement, the awards highlight the collective effort behind a thriving city centre.

Invest Chelmsford is proud to support the BID Business Awards and work closely with Chelmsford For You to celebrate and champion the businesses that drive our city forward.