Finalists Revealed For 2026 Family Business Lifetime Achievement Awards

Family Business United (FBU) has announced the finalists for the Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award 2026, recognising individuals whose contribution to their family businesses and to the wider sector has been exceptional.

The award celebrates a lifetime of dedication, leadership and impact, honouring individuals who have shaped their businesses across generations and who continue to inspire the family business community.

This year's finalists are:

• Gerald Bloom - Owner and Chairman, Big Bear Plastic Products Ltd

• Matthew Pudney - CEO, Princebuild

• John J Smith Senior - Funeral Director, John J Smith Funeral Service & Monumental Masons

• Elizabeth Rose - Marketing Manager, Rose Calendars

• Mark Rutter - Co-Founder & Chairman, Open Study College

• John Lawson - Founder & Director, Lawsons Group

• Terry Peck - Managing Director, Capital Roofing Co Ltd

• Philip Miller MBE - Executive Chairman, Stockvale Group of Companies

• Nigel Gardener – Business Support Manager, RSP UK

• Wes Arbuckle - Co-Founder, LINIAN

Commenting on the finalists, Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said: "These awards are truly special and recognise some very special people within the world of family business. Each year the evening where they are all recognised and one becomes the overall champion is a pleasure to host with some incredible people joining us on stage for a moment of reflection and celebration for all that they have achieved."

"All of the finalists deserve to be recognised and celebrated. They are what family business is all about – people with a dream, family values at the heart of what they do and above all they care. We look forward to celebrating with all of them and crowning the overall winner in due course.”

The Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award forms part of the National Family Business of the Year Awards, run by Family Business United. The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding and lasting contribution to their family business over many years, demonstrating leadership, resilience and a commitment to the values that underpin family enterprise.

All of the recipients will be presented with their award during a gala dinner in London on September 16, 2026. Find out more and book your tickets to join us here