Call for entries as BWF celebrates 17th annual awards

The BWF Awards celebrate the very best of the woodworking and joinery sector

Entries are now open for the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards – a celebration of the individuals, skills, projects and manufacturing excellence that have driven the woodworking and joinery sector forward over the past year.

Now in their 17th year, the prestigious annual awards ceremony will once again take place at the Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel on Friday 21 November 2025.

Helen Hewitt, BWF Chief Executive, said: “From conversations with BWF members and colleagues across the woodworking and joinery sector, it’s clear that the past 12 months have been shaped by innovation, skilled craftsmanship and emergence of new talent making their mark. I’m excited to see these achievements reflected in this year’s award entries.

“Last year’s launch of the BWF Sustainability Award exceeded all expectations, becoming our most-entered category. That tells us something important – across our sector, sustainability is no longer just a talking point; it’s a driving force behind our continued growth and success. By encouraging our customers and the wider construction industry to embrace timber’s potential as a high-performance, low-carbon material, we support government initiatives such as the Timber in Construction Roadmap and the Future Homes Hub, while delivering beautiful, responsibly sourced products.

“We’re looking forward to returning to the Kimpton Fitzroy for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of our profession’s achievements. It’s an evening to come together, recognise excellence, and enjoy ourselves.”

Entries for this year’s BWF Awards close at 5pm on Friday 15 August. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to the BWF Awards Dinner on Friday 21 November. Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by a client or supplier. There's no limit to the number of categories that can be entered.

This year’s award categories, which are free to enter, are as follows:

BWF Woodworking Project of the Year Award – sponsored by Anker Stuy Coatings

Recognising innovation and excellence in design, application and craftsmanship in joinery manufacture. Judges will be looking for a project that demonstrates exceptional woodworking and exceeds typical expectations of joinery products.

BWF Innovation Award – sponsored by Teknos

Celebrating excellence in technical innovation, product development, design, manufacturing, or application. Judges seek a development that extends the possibilities of timber joinery by overcoming technical challenges or introducing new concepts to achieve outstanding results.

BWF Health and Safety Award – available to sponsor

This award honours an individual or initiative that’s made a significant impact on health and safety practices and culture within a business. Judges are looking for tangible improvements to workplace safety.

BWF Rising Star Award – sponsored by NFU Mutual

Recognising an individual whose dedication and hard work have positively influenced their organisation or the broader woodworking and joinery community. Judges are looking for someone who goes the extra mile to enhance customer experience and improve business performance.

BWF Heritage Project of the Year Award – sponsored by Impra Wood Protection

Highlighting excellence in conservation, restoration, or renovation projects. Judges want to see evidence of exceptional craftsmanship and a meaningful contribution to the preservation of heritage joinery.

BWF Sustainability Award – sponsored by Remmers UK Ltd

Rewarding outstanding projects, initiatives, or individuals that demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Judges are seeking clear evidence of lasting improvements and a proactive approach to continuous environmental enhancement.

BWF Apprentice of the Year Award – sponsored by CITB

Celebrating the achievements of apprentices across the woodworking sector. Judges will consider quality of work, adherence to safety standards and the individual’s commitment and contribution to their workplace.

For further information on the BWF Awards, see www.bwf.org.uk/bwf-awards-2025.