Business, Wimborne | Posted on April 13th, 2026 | return to news

Wimborne’s best businesses honoured at awards ceremony

The Wimborne Business Awards took place on Thursday 9 April at Merley House.

The grand location of Merley House hosted the Wimborne Business Awards on Thursday 9 April to celebrate the town’s best local businesses.

Everything from a deli to a dance studio, a cookware shop to a farm shop, and a theatre to a tearoom were applauded for their excellence, impact and innovation.

Top honours went to Salamander Cookshop, which won Business of the Year and the Independent Business Award. Owners David and Ione Crossley, who took over the business seven years ago, were praised by judges for their vision and commitment.

On collecting the award, David Crossley said: “We’re so proud to be part of Wimborne and to bring cookware to life through talks and events. These awards mean a great deal to us. Thank you for that validation.”

Wimborne’s longest-running independent gift shop, Present Company, and its sister business, The Card Gallery, scooped the Outstanding Customer Service and Best Place to Work awards.

Manager Angela Hudson, who has worked at Present Company since it opened more than 25 years ago, said: “I absolutely love going to work – as do my staff, some of whom have been with us for over 15 years. We’re thrilled to win two awards.”

Dance studio Footlight Performance Academy, which moved to Wimborne’s Riverside Industrial Estate just 11 months ago, celebrated a double win with the Independent Business Award and My Favourite Business Award. Owner and dance teacher Leanne Dade said: “This is a fantastic way to celebrate our first birthday in Wimborne. We’ve been made to feel so welcome in the town and can’t thank everyone enough for their support.”

This year saw a new category, the High Street Impact Award, sponsored by Wimborne BID. Recognised for the difference they make in the town were The Tivoli Theatre and Wimborne Minster Market.

Judges described The Tivoli as a “shining star offering first-class entertainment”. Chair of the Tivoli Theatre Trust, Alan Breakwell, said: “When the Tivoli first reopened, we sold just a handful of tickets. Last year, we sold 70,000 – it’s been an incredible journey.”

Wimborne Minster Market was recognised for its positive impact on trading in the town, creating increased footfall and a knock-on benefit for surrounding businesses.

The event was organised by Marketing West and supported by Wimborne BID. It was officially opened by the Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Cllr Jeff Hart.

Nigel Reeve from Marketing West said: “Businesses are the backbone of any town, and these awards shine a spotlight on the hard work and ambition that often goes unseen. Measured against their peers, these winners really are the winners of the winners – they should be incredibly proud.”