Peterborough Business Awards are proud to welcome City Auction Group/Purple Rock as the prestigious event’s new headline sponsor.

City Auction Group/Purple Rock, which operates from Bakewell Road, in Orton Southgate, has also agreed to sponsor our the hotly contested Business Person of the Year category, which is one of 3 award categories up for grabs at our 30th annual awards contest.

Michael Tomalin, chief executive and founder of City Auction Group/Purple Rock, said: “It is a privilege for City Auction Group to be the Headline Sponsor of this year’s Peterborough Telegraph Business Awards and to celebrate the outstanding businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals who continue to drive our region forward.

"Peterborough has an exceptional business community built on ambition, resilience and innovation.

Peterborough Business Awards 2025 - winners group

placeholder image — Peterborough Business Awards 2025 - winners group

Mr Tomalin said: "These awards provide an important opportunity to recognise the people behind that success and to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

"In addition as sponsor of the Business Person of the Year category, I am particularly proud to recognise individuals whose vision, leadership and commitment are making a lasting impact on their organisations, their teams and the wider local economy.

“On behalf of everyone at City Auction Group, I wish every finalist the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating their achievements at what promises to be another outstanding evening.”

Last year Al Kingsley of NetSupport was the winner of the Business Person of the Year award that seeks to celebrate leadership that shapes the city.

The winners are those individuals whose vision, integrity and impact drive their organisations forward and strengthen the wider Peterborough community.

As chief executive of NetSupport for 30 years, Al Kingsley built a global technology company with a 22‑million‑strong installation base across 120 countries, all while fostering a culture rooted in openness, kindness and collaboration.

Judges praised his ability to combine commercial success with genuine care for people: his door is always open, his management team empowered, and despite the company’s scale, he ensures staff come together through regular social events that keep the organisation connected.

He has championed significant investment in research and development, driving innovation across existing and new products.

Beyond NetSupport, his commitment to the community is remarkable — sharing his expertise through voluntary roles including Chair of Hampton Academies Trust, Board Member of the Department for Education’s Regional Schools Directors Advisory Board for the East of England, and Independent Chair of the County’s SEND Board.

How can I take part in the Peterborough Telegraph Business Awards 2026?

Nominations are being sought for 13 categories that showcase the endeavour and enterprise shown over key aspects of business life.

We are seeking entries from a cross section of businesses who have shown exceptional growth, innovation or an outstanding contribution to the community in which they operate.

Nominations close on August 31 after which shortlisted businesses will be invited to an interview with members of the Judging Panel.

The final selection of shortlisted businesses post interview will be invited to attend a black tie gala awards on November 20 at the Holiday Inn West, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, for an evening of business networking, celebration and reward.

To enter visit www.peterboroughbusinessawards.co.uk and for more details contact Linda Pritchard on email at [email protected] or call 07837 308 942.

For sponsorship opportunities linked to this event, please contact Linda Pritchard.