Throughout September, judges have been meeting finalists in the remaining award categories in the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2025/26: Healthy Food & Wellbeing; F&B Achiever; Weetabix Sustainability Award and One to Watch. The Farming Environment Award finalists are also announced.

Shortlists are now confirmed, and finalists have received the exciting news that their hard work and achievements have been recognised. Finalists in all remaining categories are listed below.

The Farming Environment category (sponsored by Weetabix) recognises their growers who have taken action to reduce the environmental impact of growing wheat through carbon footprint reduction, promoting wildlife or regenerative agriculture. 

Finalists for the Farming Environment Award are:

• Bridge House Farm
• J.A. Knight & Sons
• Pearson Gape Farming
• R.I. Reynolds
• T.W. Brown and Son
• Wold Farm

For the F&B Achiever Award, judges have been meeting with finalists who are making a difference locally and driving the industry forward. Joseph Skinner, Partner at J Sweeney Accountants and sponsor of the category, shared his thoughts on this year’s impressive line-up of entrants: 

“The F&B Achiever Award continues to shine a spotlight on the heart and soul of the industry - the people. This year’s nominees have once again raised the bar, showcasing not only excellence but also the resilience, innovation, and spirit that defines Northamptonshire’s food and drink scene. Every story shared is a testament to the passion that fuels our county. We’re honoured to sponsor and celebrate these achievements - and the very bright future they represent.”

Finalists for F&B Achiever are:

• Braybrook Beer Co
• McManus Pubs
• Mee Blue Berries
• New Lodge Farm, Bulwick
• Tap & Kitchen, Oundle

Headline sponsor Weetabix backs the Weetabix Sustainability Award, where judges are seeking out individuals and businesses who are leading the way in sustainability across Northamptonshire.

Finalists for the Weetabix Sustainability Award are:

• Carbon Neutral Vending Ltd
• Ganders Goat
• Northampton Town Football Club Community Trust
• Tellus Mater

Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust proudly sponsors the Healthy Food & Wellbeing category, celebrating local producers and businesses that prioritise nutritious food and staff wellness. By recognising these efforts, the Trust supports a healthier Northamptonshire - making it easier for people across the county to eat well and live better. Richard Clinton, Chief Executive of Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust commented:

“The Healthy Food & Wellbeing Award category saw a great range of entrants this year, each demonstrating real creativity and dedication. From innovative products to excellent wellbeing initiatives in the workplace, the finalists provide inspiration and a real reflection of the passion driving Northamptonshire’s food and drink community.”

Finalists in the Healthy Food & Wellbeing category are as follows.

Innovative Product:

• Betty’s Caribbean Fusion
• Eat Curious
• Houghton Hams
• June Plum Jamaican Food
• Salma Soulful

Workplace:

• Igus UK Ltd
• Northampton General Hospital
• Northampton High School

The final category to be announced is the One to Watch category, sponsored by Whitworth Bros Ltd. Kim Osborn, Technical Accounts Manager is thrilled Whitworth Bros are sponsoring once again, and commented:

“Whitworth Bros are absolutely thrilled to be sponsoring the One to Watch category again. Every year we are amazed at the high-quality finalists and this year has been no different, which makes our job as judges extremely difficult.   The enthusiasm for our sector is just heart-warming and extremely impressive.  The dedication each finalist showed, outstanding passion by all.  Thank you for your hard work, One to Watch, Good Luck all…..” 

Finalists for One to Watch are:

• Baker Benjy
• Indi Local
• Millies Bakery Ltd
• The Folly, Towcester
• The Olde Three Cocks, Brigstock

The Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards shine a spotlight on local culinary excellence. Recognising and celebrating the county’s brilliant people, places and producers, the Awards fly the flag for buying and supporting local.    

The results of the competition, which will again see finalists awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze, will be announced at the Awards celebrations taking place on 16 October 2025 at The Royal & Derngate Theatre, supported again by national catering awards winners Portfolio Events.

For more details on all the categories in the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards 2025/26, please visit the Awards’ website or call the Awards team on 01933 664437 or email awards@northamptonshirefoodanddrink.co.uk.