The professional services firm backs Britain’s family enterprises as engines of long-term economic growth.

The Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards has announced Gerald Edelman as the official sponsor of the Family Business of the Year category for 2026, reinforcing the Awards’ commitment to recognising the enduring contribution of family-owned businesses to the UK economy.

Family businesses remain one of the most powerful, and often understated, pillars of British enterprise. With more than five million family-owned companies operating across the country and employing over fourteen million people, their economic footprint extends into virtually every sector and region. From high-growth regional manufacturers to multi-generational professional services firms, family enterprises continue to shape local communities while contributing materially to national prosperity.

The Gerald Edelman Family Business of the Year Award will recognise organisations that combine strong financial performance with responsible leadership, long-term stewardship and a clear sense of purpose. Open to UK-based family businesses of all sizes, the category will honour those demonstrating sustainable growth, effective and inspirational management, a culture of innovation across products or services, exceptional customer engagement, and a deeply embedded commitment to integrity and enduring values.

At a time when short-termism can dominate corporate decision-making, family-owned firms often stand apart for their patient capital, community focus and multi-generational outlook. The category has been designed to reflect that distinctive balance between heritage and progress, celebrating businesses that innovate and expand while remaining anchored in legacy and responsibility.

Commenting on the partnership, Carl Lundberg from Gerald Edelman said: “We believe that growth is not simply about scale, but also about the positive contribution a business makes to its people and its community. Sponsoring the Family Business of the Year Award allows us to champion the resilience, ambition and long-term thinking that define so many UK family enterprises. We are proud to support the British Business Excellence Awards and celebrate the leaders shaping the future of our economy.”

Sarah Austin, Founder of the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards, added: “Family businesses represent the backbone of British enterprise, combining commercial success with values-led leadership and deep-rooted community impact. Our partnership with Gerald Edelman is a natural alignment, bringing together organisations that understand the importance of stewardship and sustainable growth. Together, we look forward to recognising those businesses that are building not only profitable organisations, but lasting legacies for generations to come.”

The Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading platforms for celebrating excellence in leadership, innovation and performance. The addition of Gerald Edelman as sponsor of the Family Business of the Year category further strengthens the 2026 programme, ensuring that the vital role played by family-owned businesses receives national recognition at a time when resilience, adaptability and long-term thinking have never been more important.

Entries for the Gerald Edelman Family Business of the Year Award will open alongside the 2026 awards programme on March 9th.