Why Warburtons Won Family Business of the Year 2025
Warburtons was honoured as the Family Business of the Year 2025 at the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards, recognised for its remarkable legacy of multi-generational leadership, innovation, and enduring family values. The judges unanimously selected Warburtons as the gold standard of British family enterprise — a business that has balanced tradition with transformation for over six generations.
Celebrated for its generational strength and seamless succession, Warburtons exemplifies leadership continuity, trust, and unity. The judges praised the smooth transition between Stuart and Sam Warburton, describing it as a model of confidence, respect, and sustainable governance within a family-led organisation.
The panel also highlighted Warburtons’ extraordinary innovation and scale, transforming from a traditional bakery into a modern, diversified food manufacturer pushing boundaries in product development, technology, and sustainability.
Beyond business success, Warburtons’ cultural and community impact stood out — with over 5,000 employees nationwide, the company continues to champion its people, invest in local communities, and lead meaningful charitable initiatives. As one of the UK’s most trusted household brands, Warburtons demonstrates how a family business can thrive at scale while remaining true to its roots, purpose, and heritage.
Established in 1876, 5th generation family business Warburtons is the UK’s largest bakery brand. Warburtons offers an extensive range of over 70 products, producing more than 17 million items each week across its 11 bakeries. These products are delivered fresh to over 18,500 stores daily via 18 distribution sites.
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