Hitchin's thriving independent scene took centre stage at the Christmas lights turn on as Visit Hitchin announced the winners of the 2025 Hitchin Town Business Awards, following hundreds of nominations from grateful customers across the town.

The awards recognise the individuals, teams and businesses who go above and beyond for Hitchin's residents, visitors and wider community. Organisers said the sheer volume of nominations reflected the strength, passion and resilience of Hitchin's business community.

Below are the winners, along with special mentions made by the judging panel.

Employee of the Year

Special Mentions

• Angel Vaults – Celebrated for being a great employer, particularly supportive of students and creating valuable local jobs.
• Vinegar Hill – Praised for looking after their staff and fostering a caring workplace.

Winner: Numberworks

Numberworks scooped the 2025 title after glowing praise from customers and families. Judges highlighted the centre's friendly environment, considerate approach to staff, and consistently positive reputation. "You only ever hear good things about it," one nomination read.

Best Customer Service

Special Mentions

• Authum Care – Recognised for consistently going above and beyond to support clients and families with compassion and professionalism.
• Bridgetown Munroe – Commended for delivering exceptional service despite the demands of a busy bar.
• Jamie's – Known for always finding a solution and never making any request too much trouble.
• Ziba – Praised for creating a cheerful, welcoming environment for individuals and families.

Winner: Cloud 9 Baby

Cloud 9 Baby took the award after repeated praise for its exceptional service. Customers described staff as friendly, helpful and willing to go the extra mile — even allowing soon-to-be parents to push a weighted pram up and down the High Street to make sure it was the perfect fit. "It's a fantastic local business that genuinely cares about its customers," one supporter said.

Town Centre Champion(s)

Special Mention

• Hitchin AED – Maggie Hackney
• Maggie was recognised for her tireless work over many years supplying defibrillators across the town and training residents in CPR, making Hitchin a safer community.

Winner: The Hitchin Soapbox Team

The team behind the hugely popular Hitchin Soapbox event claimed the award for the way they "went above and beyond to create such a brilliant event that brought a lot of positive attention and vibes to the town". Judges and residents agreed: "More of the same please."

Best Overall Business

Special Mentions

• Authum Care – Commended for doing everything for the good of others.
• Numberworks – Recognised as a vital resource helping young people excel in English and Maths through professional, nurturing support.
• Ziba – Celebrated as a true local cornerstone and a shining example of an independent business enriching the community.

Winner: Bridgetown Munroe

Bridgetown Munroe was named Hitchin's Best Overall Business for 2025. Nominations applauded its brilliant atmosphere, community vibe, stylish décor, committed staff and — of course — its renowned cocktails. "The staff never give anything less than 100%," one nomination said. "They make the best cocktails ever."