The Powys Business of the Year 2024 is Brecon-based Beacon Foods, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of ingredients and ready to eat products.

The family-run company, which was established in 1993, collected the coveted accolade, sponsored by Powys County Council, at the annual awards ceremony held at Dering Lines, in Brecon on Friday, October 4.

Earlier in the evening, the company, which has 75,000 square feet of manufacturing and storage facilities, also collected the Growth Award, sponsored by WR Partners.

Beacon Foods has grown from a start-up company to an industry leader employing a workforce of 165 in 31 years.

Chairman Edward Gough received the award with his mother, Rae Jones, with whom he started the successful business 31 years ago.

“We are truly humbled to win this award against some fantastic businesses here in Powys,” he said.

“We are proud of everything we have achieved as a company over the past 31 years and it’s great for our staff to be recognised with these awards.

“We must also mention the amazing support that we have received from the Welsh Government, Mid Wales Manufacturing Group and Total Food Marketing over the years. The support for food manufacturers here in Wales has been brilliant.”

Councillor David Selby, Powys County Council Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, praised all the award winners and finalists.

“Beacons Foods is testament that Powys is a great place to start, nurture and grow a business,” he said.

“The company has invested in facilities, equipment and staff and to improve sustainabilityand reduce carbon, demonstrated innovation and has a strong customer focus.

“They have shown all the ingredients required to make a family dream a reality. The company is a role model for other companies and a true ambassador for the county of Powys.”

Another Mid Wales company in Lakeside Boathouse, Llandrindod Wells won an award. They went home with the Micro Business Award, sponsored by The County Times.

Organised by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group (MWMG), the awards showcase the diverse range of successful enterprises within Powys.