Hampshire firms dominate King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026

Hampshire’s business community delivered a record-breaking performance at the King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026, with five local firms among just 186 recipients nationwide. The accolades recognize excellence in innovation, international trade, and sustainable development, cementing the county’s reputation as an economic engine in southern England.

Nigel Atkinson, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, hailed the achievement as a testament to the region’s resilience and ingenuity. "This reflects the depth of talent and ambition thriving in Hampshire," Atkinson said. "To claim three of the UK’s most prestigious business awards in a single year is extraordinary."

RJM Corporation (EC) Ltd, based in Winchester, claimed the International Trade award for its combustion and emissions solutions used by global power generators. The company, which also won the Innovation award in 2017, now supplies technology to over 50 countries, generating £28 million in annual revenue.

Crystal Spring Consumer Division, headquartered in Chandler’s Ford, secured the Sustainable Development award for its groundbreaking refillable deodorant line. The products, launched in 2024, have diverted 3.7 million single-use plastic containers from landfills. "Consumers want sustainable options without compromise," said CEO Laura Hartwell. "This award validates our mission to redefine everyday essentials."

Solent Rib Charters of Lymington earned the Innovation award for commissioning the CRC Walrus, the world’s first amphibious crew transfer vessel. Designed for intertidal windfarms, the 22-meter vessel operates in shallow waters where traditional ships cannot reach. "The Walrus reduces costly downtime by 40%," said operations director Mark Rennie. "It’s a game-changer for offshore renewable energy."

CTS Europe, based in Portsmouth, secured the International Trade award for its safety enclosures for pharmaceutical labs in 25 countries. The company, which also won an Innovation award in 2019, employs 120 staff and exports 85% of its output. "Our systems protect millions of doses of critical medicines," said managing director Aisha Patel. "Global recognition validates our commitment to safety and precision."

Sumillion Ltd, headquartered in Basingstoke, won the Sustainable Development award for its ethical IT supply chain. The firm reduced carbon emissions by 60% since 2020 through renewable energy and circular economy practices. "Sustainability isn’t a side project," said sustainability manager Daniel Reeves. "It’s the foundation of our growth strategy."

The 2026 awards introduce a new Young Founders category for entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30, signaling a push to nurture the next generation of business leaders. Applications opened this month, with winners announced in April 2026. Hampshire’s dominance in this year’s awards sets a high bar for regional competitors.