Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Employee Ownership Annual Awards 2026, held at the very modern Library of Birmingham.
It was a really enjoyable day and a valuable opportunity to catch up with colleagues, fellow advisers, employee-owned businesses and many others working across the employee ownership sector. Events like this are always a reminder of the strength, energy and collaborative spirit within the employee ownership community.
The day included some excellent sessions and discussions, with plenty of insight into the continuing growth of employee ownership in the UK. For me, however, the real highlight was seeing two businesses I have had the privilege of working with shortlisted for national awards.
Batcheller Monkhouse was shortlisted for Transition of the Year, recognising the work involved in moving successfully into employee ownership.
Bartlett Limited, where I act as Independent Trustee, was shortlisted in the Rising Star category, which celebrates companies that are up to three years into their employee ownership journey.
I was absolutely delighted that Bartlett Limited went on to win the Rising Star award, becoming national champions in that category.
It was a proud moment to see their hard work, commitment and enthusiasm for employee ownership recognised on a national stage. Employee ownership is not simply a transaction or a change in shareholding structure; at its best, it is a long-term commitment to shared purpose, good governance and giving employees a meaningful stake in the future of the business.
Congratulations to Bartlett Limited, Batcheller Monkhouse and all of the other shortlisted and winning businesses. The awards were a great celebration of what employee ownership can achieve, and it was a privilege to be part of the day.
