Active Essex Award Winners

Bakers Wins Active Employer of the Year at the Active Essex Awards

On 4th December, we swapped the factory for the beautiful Hatfield Place as we attended the Active Essex Awards, where Bakers was nominated for Active Employer of the Year. After being welcomed with drinks and a buffet we settled in for an evening packed with motivation, celebration, and some truly unforgettable stories.

To be nominated was an honour in itself – but to sit among so many inspiring individuals made the night even more special. The room was full of people who dedicate their time, skills and energy to changing lives. This was not only for young people, but for entire communities across Essex. Their passion, resilience, and creativity were nothing short of incredible.

Throughout the evening, we heard from speakers whose work has uplifted, challenged, and empowered others. We were also delighted to hear from guest speaker Cllr John Spence, who recently visited Bakers to discuss workplace wellbeing. He praised us as “the epitome of understanding that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce” – something we are immensely proud of.
(Read more about his visit here.)

When our category was announced and Bakers was named Active Employer of the Year, it felt like a proud moment for everyone involved in supporting our wellbeing culture. From our staff socials and team challenges to our onsite gym and the everyday encouragement shared between colleagues. Being active isn’t just about physical health; it strengthens confidence, mental wellbeing, and our sense of community. To be great, we need to feel great and that’s something we strive to make possible for every person in the business.

A Few Words From Liv Thirlwell, Senior Marketing Assistant at Bakers

“It was an honour to attend this event and be in a room full of such inspiring people. It was truly warming to see the difference so many individuals and organisations are making. I felt incredibly proud to represent Bakers and show what a motivating and supportive place it is to work.”

Liv also shared how Bakers’ active culture has personally inspired her:

“Being part of a company that truly lives up to its title as Active Employer of the Year has pushed me to achieve things I never thought I would. Since joining Bakers, I’ve returned to swimming, completed my first open-water event, and even run the Brentwood Half Marathon. I wouldn’t have taken on any of these challenges without working for an organisation that genuinely inspires and supports its people to lead active, healthier lives”

A Night to Remember

We left the awards feeling grateful, motivated, and even more determined to continue championing wellbeing at Bakers. Winning this award reinforces what we already believe – that supporting our people, encouraging movement, and creating opportunities to challenge ourselves makes us stronger together.
Here’s to staying active, supporting one another, and continuing to make Bakers a place where people can grow – professionally and personally.

Roll on the next challenge!