Recognising Hospitality Stars At The Purple Umbrella Awards

Umbrella training is the leading UK hospitality apprenticeship training provider, making apprenticeships accessible to all. They pride themselves in the celebration of others, by making sure the hard work, passion and enthusiasm of apprentices doesn’t go unnoticed. By their employers and industry peers, but also through The Purple Umbrella Awards.

Last month, in the historic surroundings of the House of Lords, Apprentices from The Pig, Luxury Family Hotels and Soho House among others, were recognised at the annual awards. Voted for by an independent panel of judges, including sponsors, industry professionals and passionate board members, these awards are dedicated to shining a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of apprentices and mentors across the hospitality sector.

The ceremony also celebrated those who champion the power of hospitality to change lives, inspire communities, and drive innovation.

The evening began with the most prestigious award of all, the Special Purple Umbrella Award 2025, recognising an individual who has tirelessly championed the sector. The award was presented to Kate Nicholls OBE, Chair of UK Hospitality, for her unwavering advocacy and leadership. She has united voices across the sector and reminded the nation that hospitality is not just about food, drink, or accommodation, but about people, opportunity, and creating places where careers are built and communities thrive.

On Brand Awards

There is never any doubt of who these awards are for! The Purple Umbrella Awards are created from a laser cut acrylic shaped like an umbrella & reversed digitally printed in their brand colour. With a polished nickel plated aluminium base & laser engraved winners details.

Adele Oxberry, founder of Umbrella Training believes these awards are integral to highlighting the incredible achievements within the industry:

“The Purple Umbrella Awards are about recognising the extraordinary people who make hospitality so special. From those just beginning their journey to those stepping into leadership roles, our winners and finalists embody the passion, resilience, and ambition that define this industry. We are so proud to celebrate their achievements with The Purple Umbrella Awards for another year.”

Guests also supported a fundraising prize draw, with proceeds going to Hospitality Action, Be Inclusive Hospitality, and The Felix Trust.

A spokesperson for the awards had this to say about their awards and working with EFX – “Thank you to EFX for creating our beautiful bespoke umbrella-shaped trophies for the Purple Umbrella Awards. They look fantastic! We hope our winners will display them with pride and be reminded of the amazing journey they have had with Umbrella Training.”