Who are the leading young achievers in hospitality? We're looking for outstanding individuals aged under 30 who deserve industry recognition. If you have someone in mind, yourself even, fill in the nomination form.

The 2005 Acorn Awards attracted a record number of nominations for the 30 accolades on offer. We received entries from across the board, encompassing independent restaurants, chain restaurants, hotels, contract caterers, pubs and colleges. Seven women and 23 men eventually became winners - so this year the girls have some catching up to do.

2006 will be the 20th year of Caterer's Acorn Awards, awards that personify everything that is good about our industry. They recognise 30 people under 30 who exemplify all the best characteristics of hospitality - high achievers who have continued to exceed expectations.

So once again, with the continued support of Unilever Foodsolutions, we embark on a journey of discovery to find the ambassadors of the future. Help us by nominating the industry's future leaders. The winners' weekend will involve a series of interesting challenges to test their endurance.

Click here for nomination form >>

The Acorn Advantage: Four previous winners make a special work placement offer. Read article >>

2006 Acorn Awards Sponsor Message

Calum Ross, managing director, Unilever Foodsolutions

“With the Acorn Awards celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2006, Unilever Foodsolutions’ commitment to them is as strong as it has ever been.  Since their inception two decades ago, we have seen them grow in stature and become the awards that ambitious young stars in the industry aspire to win.

“Unilever Foodsolutions believes that young talent and enthusiasm should be praised and rewarded and our sponsorship of the Acorn Awards bears this out.  The future of the hospitality industry is dependent upon the calibre of personnel across all disciplines and by supporting and nurturing this talent, it will go from strength to strength.
 
“The annual Acorn Awards recognise and celebrate excellence from 30 young industry professionals whose achievements make them stand out from their peers.  Each year during the judging process we see a wide selection of promising and determined individuals all striving to become the best in their field.  All those put forward for these awards deserve to be applauded for their achievements and their success in helping our industry to become a sector other young professionals aspire to be a part of.

“Unilever Foodsolutions’ ability to respond to the ever-changing marketplace and continually provide innovative catering solutions has positioned us at the forefront of the foodservice industry.  All our products are backed by a wealth of culinary knowledge, marketing expertise and product development from our world-wide operation.   We are pleased to show our commitment to the foodservice industry by once again sponsoring the Acorn Awards and we look forward to congratulating this year’s exceptional achievers.”