Kent-based e-commerce business Must Have Ideas has clinched a prestigious win at the 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Co-founder and director Amy Knight shone brightly as her homeware business was named the ‘Established Business of the Year’ for the South East of England at a ceremony in London on 18 November.
The Allica Bank Award for established businesses recognises the exceptional achievements of businesses that have not only weathered the storms of entrepreneurship, but thrived. This award is for businesses with between 5-250 employees and a turnover of £500k+.
Amy founded Must Have Ideas with her husband Rob Knight and friend Chris Finch by packaging products from her dining room table in 2018. With an investment of £3,000 to buy the first product, the company now turns over around £65 million.
Amy said: “I am proud to be crowned as the top Established Business in the South East at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards and honoured to have our business growth recognised. We look forward to continuing growing Must Have Ideas into a household name.”
Francesca James, founder of the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, added: “Every year, I’m in awe of the entrepreneurs who come through our programme, and this year is no different.
“The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards continues to receive thousands of applications annually, reflecting the incredible strength of entrepreneurship across the UK.
“This year’s winners collectively generate over £3 billion in turnover and employ over 20,000 people. These extraordinary individuals are not only transforming industries but also uplifting communities and inspiring the next generation of business leaders.”
Amy’s motto, “Treat everyone like your nan and make decisions that would make your mum proud,” led Must Have Ideas to grow into a 40,000-square-foot warehouse in Maidstone and 135 staff, which prioritises the highest standards of customer service.
Earlier this year, the company was named in the Sunday Times 100 Fastest Growing Companies list and launched its dedicated shopping channel in August.
