Lewisham’s thriving and diverse businesses get red carpet treatment

A celebration of Lewisham business saw 15 awards handed out at a glitzy annual event held at Catford’s iconic and newly-renovated Broadway Theatre.

This year’s Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards received overwhelming and unprecedented public engagement, with close to 9,000 votes and nominations and 300 attendees at the awards ceremony.

Lewisham prides itself on having a thriving business community that is proudly independent, diverse and innovative. The Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards are flagged up as a showcase for organisations that boost local economic growth and provide opportunities that benefit their local communities and the wider borough.

From best restaurant to best in creative sector, the awards highlight the depth and breadth of the businesses in Lewisham.

The ceremony was hosted by Robbie Gee and Eddie Nestor MBE, and the audience was treated to captivating performances by IRIE! Dance Theatre and the Lewisham Goes Gospel choir.

Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres said: “Lewisham has a resilient, unique, and authentic economy. We celebrate businesses who play a central role in creating a stronger, fairer economy. Congratulations to every nominee and every winner. Lewisham is proud of you.”

Cabinet member for Member for Business, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Kim Powell said: “Over the past year we have seen remarkable achievements from our local business community.

“As a council, we remain committed to supporting our start-ups, our independent businesses, our growing business, and our high streets. The council has been busy delivering targeted support to help entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality.

Deputy Mayor for Growth and Business, Howard Dawber, said: “It’s inspiring to hear about the many businesses in the borough who are boosting growth, creating jobs and building a more sustainable economy in the local community.

“Through the Mayor of London’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we’ve invested £2.8 million to support Lewisham’s businesses and communities – helping to create over 60,000ft of affordable workspace, safeguarding jobs and offering 275 businesses across the borough free advice, as we work together to build a more prosperous and fairer London for all.”

The Winners:

Best visitor attraction: Beckenham Place Park Mansion

Beckenham Place Park boasts scenery of outstanding beauty. The park is home to a lake and ancient woodland and features various listed buildings which are being renovated.

Best sustainable business: Zer0 Waste Corner

An environmentally shop where you can find a range of natural and biodegradable products.

DragonFly Yoga: A yoga and pilates studio in Sydenham; Leo’s Café: A vegan and vegetarian cafe based in Sydenham offering a space for events, co-working and great food.

Best online business: Kids Black History Classroom: An online education platform sharing knowledge about Black history.

Best community contribution: Ignition Brewery based in Sydenham which employs and trains people with learning disabilities to brew and serve great beer.

Best new business: The Vegan Patty Lady: Founded by Natasha Orumbie, The Vegan Patty Lady offers plant-based patties crafted to deliver authentic flavours with high-quality vegan ingredients.

Best in creative sector: D&B Academy of Performing Arts – a performing arts school that offers a holistic balanced curriculum of professional training through college, theatre school and agency.

Best Restaurant: Gurkha’s in Sydenham, which offers Nepalese dishes alongside classic Indian curries.

Best High Street Store: Bunka – an independent lifestyle store bringing design-led fashion, homewares and gifts for women, men, babies and kids.

Best café: Dolce Dessert and Café in Catford, which serves delicious all-day breakfasts, fresh coffee and sweet treats.

Best bar, pub or night-time economy business: Blythe Hill Tavern – a traditional Victorian corner pub where you will find a warm welcome and a great selection of real ales on tap.

Best hair and beauty: Scissors and Nails, a stone’s throw from Lewisham Shopping Centre.

Best independent food retailer: Turkish Food Centre – a hub for Mediterranean groceries, fresh produce, and vibrant flavours.

Best independent business: Kindred Yoga – a studio based in Deptford creating a relaxing environment for people to nurture their yoga practice.

Best market: Horniman’s Museum Sunday Market, which offers seasonal fruit, vegetables, street food, and stalls selling locally made, ethical body care, clothing, jewellery, and crafts using organic or eco-friendly materials.

Lewisham Legacy Award: Richard Simpson at Cummin’ Up – an award recognising a decades-long dedication serving the people of Lewisham with delicious Jamaican flavours, as well as for their charitable work, including providing meals to the community on Christmas Day.

Pictured top: Happy winners of the Best Visitor Attraction award – staff of Beckenham Place Park Mansion (Picture: LB Lewisham)