Start-up winner continues to shine

Love Food, based in Southdownview Road, in Worthing, impressed judges with their strong turnover and ethical approach to the high-end ready meal market during last year’s judging process. But despite making a strong impression on the panel, director Aaron Douglass said the business never expected to win. He said: “We were very surprised to win. We sent off the application form and, to be honest, forgot all about it. “Then we heard we were in the final and went along on the night and won. “To be recognised as the best start-up in the area was excellent. Having recognition is very important.” Mr Douglass said he would be looking into entering the awards again this year. He said: “I don’t think we can win start-up business of the year for two years running, so we will be looking at the other categories to see if there is one for us.” Since the awards, the company has continued to expand and introduce new products and services. An urban farm shop has been opened, while it has signed a number of contracts with well-respected distribution companies. Mr Douglass said: “Funds have been and are still being invested in our kitchens, which we have doubled in size to around 2000 square feet. “We are also stepping up our web presence, with the launch of our new e-commerce site, which will allow customers to buy ready meals online for delivery by courier in state of the art eco-friendly insulated boxes.” The 2014 Adur and Worthing Business Awards is now open for nominations. The annual event, which proved a sell-out success last year, launched this month, with businesses large and small encouraged to get involved. Nominations have opened across 15 categories, from green business to business personality, with prizes to be presented at Worthing Pavilion on November 14. At last year’s ceremony, East Worthing digital thermometer innovators ETI were the big winners, scooping two of the awards. Its managing director, Peter Webb, was also presented with the lifetime achievement prize. For more details, visit www.jpsouthevents.co.uk/events/event/adur-worthing-business-awards Entries received by August 11 will be entered into a prize draw to win an iPad. To sponsor a category, email jeanette.hockley@jpress.co.uk