The Robinson sponsors family business category at 2025 Enterprise Vision Awards

The Robinson, Blackpool’s new business hub, has been confirmed as the official sponsor of the Family Business category at the 2025 Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs).

The £8.2m project to renovate the art deco Stanley Buildings in Blackpool town centre, is transforming previously disused space into a contemporary business centre to be called The Robinson.

It features 44 serviced offices, six high-spec meeting rooms and extensive co-working space.  Thoughtfully designed with a range of modern amenities including fibre broadband, break out spaces, new kitchens, showers and secure bike storage.

The Robinson pays tribute to the Borough Chief Architect from 1920-1944, John Charles Robinson, who designed many of Blackpool’s landmark civic buildings including libraries, schools, swimming baths, leisure facilities and tourist infrastructure.

Angela Kershaw, head of business growth at Blackpool Council, said: "We are committed to supporting business growth in Blackpool, ranging from tailored growth advice and inspirational events through our Business Academies to our purpose designed business centres, perfect for smaller growth-oriented businesses. We can’t wait to open the doors of The Robinson and invite local businesses to view all it has to offer.”

Founded by Coral Horn the EVAs are now in their 14th year of recognising women in business. It has become the UK’s largest business awards dedicated solely to women, and recognises, promotes and inspires growth among female business leaders.

The EVAs feature a wide range of categories, from Family Business to Best Newcomer and Best Business Award. By sponsoring the Family Business category, The Robinson highlights its dedication to supporting entrepreneurial women and family-run enterprises.

Previous winners of the Family Business category include Jenny McFadden and Alex Malley from Pretty Mama, and Andrea and Charlotte Fogg from Maria Fogg Family Law. And Alice Potter, founder and CEO of AJP Social Studio, who received support from the Blackpool Growth Business Academy in growing her start-up, won the Highly Commended One to Watch category in 2024.

Taking place on Friday 26th September 2025, this year’s finalists represent a diverse and inspiring range of enterprises. In the Family Business category, the finalists are, Alice Cripps – Posh Totty Designs, Diane Hannah – The Herdy Company, Emma Key – Pawz Let Loose, Felicity & Courtney Bennett-Pearson – Visiting Angels Edinburgh East, Laura Crowther – The Busy Food Company, Mel Walmsley – Lakes Sandwiches and Sheila Byrne – Hope Street Community Hub & Café.

“We’re delighted to have The Robinson sponsoring the Family Business category this year. There is a real buzz around its imminent launch, and I’m looking forward to seeing The Robinson open its doors. It’s in a fantastic location to support Blackpool’s business community,” says Coral.