The prestigious North West Family Business Awards 2025 took centre stage at The Rum Warehouse, Titanic Hotel in Liverpool on Friday, 9 May, crowning Widdop & Co. as North West Family Business of the Year 2025. The fifth-generation family-run gift and homeware company also received the Wholesale Visionaries Award in the wholesaler category during the event organised by The Family Business Community.
The event brought together an audience of over 400, including family business leaders, their teams, and those that support the sector, to honour the innovation, resilience, and success of more than 120 North West’s finest family businesses.
Established in 1883 by clock and watchmaker, William Widdop, Widdop & Co. has evolved into a market leader in the UK gifting industry. Today, the company operates from its expansive head office and distribution centre in Oldham, Greater Manchester, managing a diverse and expanding portfolio of 35 brands and approximately 11,000 products.
In 2023, after 35 years under the fourth generation of the Widdop family, brothers Stephen and Dan Illingworth acquired the business outright in a management buyout in the roles of CEO and Managing Directors respectively. Their leadership has brought fresh energy while remaining rooted in the family values that have defined Widdop & Co. for over 140 years.
A recent example of this values-led approach is the launch of “Softies,” a new line of plush toys, developed by CEO Stephen Illingworth. Inspired by Widdop & Co.’s team members and Stephen and Dan’s own family, many of the Softies characters have a personal connection.
Commenting on the award, Widdop’s CEO, Stephen Illingworth said “We’re immensely proud of our heritage and so excited about our future. Receiving these awards is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire Widdop family. Standing amongst this amazing community is an honour.”
Managing Director Dan Illingworth added “Stephen and I are Illingworth’s, and so we naturally see all of our Widdop team as part of the Widdop family. These accolades wouldn’t be possible without their unwavering commitment and passion.”
The North West family Business Awards co-founders Dave Clarkson and Sue Howorth expressed their pride in the event’s success: “We always aim to create an unforgettable experience, and hosting the awards in Liverpool this year added something truly special. The incredible turnout of family businesses and their supporters was a testament to the strength of the community. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate the achievements of these truly fantastic businesses. It was truly a night to remember!” For more information about Widdop & Co. and its product offerings please visit www.widdop.co.uk. To see the full list of winners and more information about the 2025 North West Family Business Awards visit 2025 Winners – North West Family Business Awards
