The highly anticipated 2025 British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards have officially announced their shortlisted nominees and winners, showcasing the standout individuals and businesses from the woodworking and joinery manufacturing sectors. These prestigious awards honor the skill, creativity, and dedication that define the industry. As the woodworking world celebrates craftsmanship and innovation, this year’s awards promise to highlight key achievements that contribute to a sustainable and thriving industry.
Helen Hewitt, the Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation, shared her excitement about the increasing scale and prestige of the awards. In its 17th year, the BWF Awards have set a new record for the number of entries across all categories. According to Hewitt, the quality of submissions this year is a testament to the passion and commitment within the sector. “These awards not only recognise outstanding skill but also demonstrate how our industry is advancing with new approaches to health and safety, workforce development, and sustainability,” she commented.
Categories and shortlisted nominees
This year’s shortlist covers several key categories, each recognising different aspects of excellence in woodworking and joinery. Let’s take a closer look at the nominations in each category:
BWF Health & Safety Award
Sponsored by Professional Woodworking Today, this category celebrates businesses and individuals making strides in improving health and safety practices. The following companies have been shortlisted for their efforts:
- Heron Joinery – Recognised for their “Reduced Manual Handling through One-Piece Flow Turntable lines” project, showcasing significant improvements in safety and efficiency.
- Heron Manufacture Ltd – Acknowledged for Aidan McClenaghan’s transformative work in advancing health and safety within the Heron group.
- Archwood Limited – Nominated for Shawn Griffiths’ ongoing commitment to a safer, healthier workplace through continuous enhancements to health and safety protocols.
BWF Apprentice of the Year Award
Sponsored by CITB, this award honors apprentices who demonstrate exceptional skill and initiative. The following apprentices are in the running for the prestigious title:
- Marc White (Heron Joinery) – Praised by his employer for excelling in his training while simultaneously improving the workplace environment.
- Luke Newton (TMJ Interiors) – Recognised for his dedication and alignment with company values, quickly becoming a valuable asset to his team.
- Bradley Quinn (ERW Joinery Ltd) – Commended for his initiative and ability to enhance workplace operations while consistently delivering high-quality work.
BWF Heritage Project of the Year Award
Sponsored by Impra Wood Protection, this award honours projects that celebrate and restore traditional craftsmanship. The following projects have made it to the shortlist:
- Law & Lewis Joinery of Cambridge Ltd – Shortlisted for the major refurbishment of a mid-1800s property in Brookside, Cambridge.
- R & E Falkingham Ltd – Recognised for the restoration and renewal of heritage joinery at Sicklinghall.
- Houghtons of York – Nominated for the restoration of the tapestry drawing room at the Grade 1 listed Castle Howard, a true feat in heritage conservation.
BWF Innovation Award
Sponsored by Teknos, this category recognises innovations in products and services that have transformed the woodworking sector. The nominees are:
- JoinerySoft Ltd – For their development of JMS Cloud, software designed specifically to streamline operations for joinery businesses.
- NBJ (London) Ltd – Nominated for the creation of the Grain House Staircase in Covent Garden, a project that demonstrates both creativity and technical expertise.
- R & E Falkingham Ltd – Recognised for their innovative approach to showroom design with their Immersive Heritage Joinery Experience, breaking away from traditional models.
BWF Sustainability Award
Sponsored by Remmers UK Ltd, this award acknowledges businesses dedicated to reducing environmental impact. The nominees include:
- Stepnell – For its data-driven approach to reducing environmental impact across its operations.
- James Latham Ltd – Recognised for its ongoing commitment to sustainability through various impactful measures.
- Accsys Technologies PLC – For their Accoya Offcuts Programme, a collaboration that promotes circularity in the industry.
BWF Rising Star Award
Sponsored by NFU Mutual, this category highlights individuals who are driving innovation and demonstrating outstanding leadership potential in the woodworking industry. The following individuals are up for the award:
- Gemma Pavitt (Mumford and Wood Ltd) – Praised for her commitment to business transformation and leadership through personal integrity.
- John Mullan (Heron Joinery) – Recognised for his ability to support and inspire others while continuously delivering high-quality work.
- Roy Fletcher (Gowercroft Joinery) – Known for his dedication and always going the extra mile, Roy has earned recognition for his contributions to both the company and industry.
Sponsored by Anker Stuy Coatings, this prestigious award celebrates the very best of woodworking projects. The nominees include:
- Houghtons of York – For their restoration of the tapestry drawing room at Castle Howard, an example of exceptional craftsmanship.
- Mumford & Wood Ltd – Recognised for handcrafting bespoke windows for the prestigious 1 Mayfair residential project in London.
- TMJ Interiors – Nominated for their complex bespoke joinery work on the Ribbon Curved Wall project, showcasing intricate design and technical skill.
The BWF Awards provide a platform to recognise the individuals and businesses that make a significant impact on the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industries. These awards not only highlight excellence in craft but also celebrate the innovative approaches that continue to shape the future of the sector.
The winners will be announced on Friday, November 21st, 2025, at the prestigious Kimpton Fitzroy London. This event promises to be an exciting evening, bringing together the best in the industry to honor their achievements and successes.
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