TLC Business Hampshire Business Awards
TLC Business’ 5 top Hampshire businesses to watch out for
The team here at TLC Business has selected 5 Hampshire-based companies that we believe deserve recognition for the way they have gone about their marketing to build successful and growing businesses.
It was a difficult process settling on just 5 companies because Hampshire contains many fantastic businesses, however, after much deliberation the team came up with these five businesses. Let us know if you agree with our choices.
Our First award goes to….
1. Plum Baby – All Round Performer
Plum Baby is passionate about two things in life – children and good food.
They follow their ‘Plum way’ to deliver organic food that is not only tasty for growing tots but contains no additives or unnecessary fillers. They deliver ‘real food for parents that want the best for their little ones.’
The company was launched in 2006 by Susie Willis, a former chef and mother of three. Having been bought out by Darwin Private Equity early this year, Susie Willis will stay on board as Creative Director to ensure that the ‘Plum Way’ is followed in the future.
Plum Baby is now on track to achieve a retail turnover of £15m in 2010. Even IKEA have selected Plum as their recommended baby food partner.
2. The Hambledon – Excellent Press Coverage
The Hambledon has been described as a hub of pure chic and we here at TLC Business agree. Set up ten years ago, the Hambledon is an independent boutique nestled in the heart of Winchester.
The Hambledon has gone on to feature within Vogues ‘Britain’s Best Boutiques 2010’, as well as Drapers, The Telegraph, Red and The Times.
“The Hambledon in Winchester. It’s great to see a shop like this outside London. The owner has an excellent eye and buys toys, furniture, clothes, and kitchen stuff that you don’t see anywhere else” Telegraph Magazine
Over the years The Hambledon has grown to be a popular shopping haunt and I’m sure 2011 will bring further success.
3. Caracoli – Experience in Service
Caracoli has to be one of TLC Business’ favourite places to eat within Hampshire.
Caracoli describe themselves as a high-quality coffee house with a passion for great food and drink. The General Manager of Caracoli has extensive experience in the hospitality trade, having been General Manager of Hotel du Vin both in Winchester and Henley-on Thames. Not only do you get great food in a great atmosphere but you also receive brilliant service.
Caracoli is making a name for itself in 2010 having received two gold awards this year in the Great Taste Awards, accredited by the Guild of Fine Food.
Caracoli is not only a one to watch but also a one to try….yummy.
4. Wickham Vineyards – Top Quality Produce
Wickham Vineyards has placed itself firmly on the wine making map, by producing some of the best wines in the country. Founded in 1984, Wickham has gone on to scoop major awards across the world of wine in 2010. From the United Kingdom Vineyards Association to the International Wine Challenge, Wickham is making a real impact not just in the UK but increasingly, within the international wine market.
The well established Hampshire vineyard grows a variety of different vines which include Pinot Noir, Rondo, Triomphe and Dornfelder for the reds and Bacchus, Reichensteiner, Faber Schoenburger Seyval Blanc for the whites.
Wickham definitely deserves an award for its top quality produce.
5. Charters Estate agent – Excelling the Competition
Our final award, for one of our Top 5 Hampshire companies to watch out for is…
Charters estate agents in Winchester.
Having just celebrated their first birthday, Charters has been ranked among the top 5 estate agents in Hampshire.
Charters were awarded third place in the regional round of the renowned Estate Agent and Letting Agent Awards 2010. The award is based on what consumers really think and it looks like Charters know their client base very well.
Top three in 2010, maybe 2011 will bring first place? Let’s wait and see.
We think you’ll agree that all our choices are inspirational businesses and highlight the high quality organisations that exist within the county.
Let us know your thoughts and any businesses you think deserve to be in our top Hampshire Businesses list.
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