Let’s be honest, 2020 was not a year anyone expected. We all faced unprecedented challenges that impacted every person, community and business. As a result the RBA team had to make some tough decisions over the year about how, and even if, there would be an awards year. We realised that many businesses would have more pressing priorities than entering an awards programme, however as the year played out it became apparent that rural was well placed to cope; a resilient and innovative bunch that were open for business.
So, the RBAs went digital! Our awards entry system allowed for online entries and remote online judging, meaning that all we needed was an online final to announce the winners. We even found that we were able to talk to and feature more of our finalists, releasing videos across social media introducing these companies. In a first for us, our online National Final featured interviews with all of those shortlisted in the Triumph over Adversity category – allowing us to share some truly inspiring stories.
We are so thankful that all our entrants took the time to take part in our Awards this year. A big thank you also to our sponsors who backed us all the way and made it possible for us to continue. And not forgetting our compere, Jules Hudson, who did a fantastic job of hosting the online ceremony!
Well done for hosting the awards under such difficult circumstances. It has been a very difficult year for us so this makes the award even more special. We are still reeling at winning your first every Sustainability and Environmental Impact Award! So very proud and excited.
Tim Maw
Oak Barn, Frame Farm
The online Awards were such a joy and inspiration to watch this year. We were absolutely thrilled to win as it means so very much to all of us here as well as our customers. It has been so heart warming the support from everyone congratulating us on our Awards and we have already enjoyed a spike in sales as a result.
Kristina Boulden
Romney Marsh Wools
We are all in a state of shock (in the nicest possible way)! Well done to your team for putting on such a professional online awards ceremony.
Ellen Musgrove
Musgrove Willows
National Final Presentation
Watch the National Final where we announce our National winners and runners-up across our 13 award categories.
Find out more about our amazing finalists in the National Final 2021 programme.
Click on the programme to the right to view it in full screen