Local Experience Gifting Company Wins Award for UK's Most Inspiring Small Firms

Uniquely Local Experiences has been awarded the Digital Star Award for best digital only business at The Small Awards.

A Yorkshire-based business that champions local entrepreneurs by providing a platform to promote their experiences has been recognised as the Best Digital Business at this year’s Small Awards.

Rachel Marshall, Business Owner at Uniquely Local Experiences with Erika Robinson, UK GM at Constant Contact who presented the award and Sue Perkins, Comedian and Presenter, who hosted the awards ceremony.

Uniquely Local Experiences, based in York, won the award, which recognises small businesses that operate only through digital channels, using the internet to market, sell and promote their product and service. The award celebrates strong use of digital channels to engage customers, innovation in web design and functionality, and growth in audience over time.

Owner, Rachel Marshall, who founded Uniquely Local Experiences in 2016, was presented with the Small Award at a sparkling celebration event in central London, hosted by presenter, writer, actor and comedian, Sue Perkins.

Founded in Yorkshire, Uniquely Local began with a simple idea: to create a hub where people could find and gift truly memorable local experiences. Since launching, they've built a thriving digital platform that showcases the talent and creativity of Yorkshire’s small businesses – from passionate hobbyists to seasoned professionals. Their commitment to thoughtful, sustainable gifting has resonated with customers looking for more meaningful alternatives to mass-produced presents. Over the years, they’ve grown from a home-run start-up to a trusted name in experiential gifting, forging partnerships with local makers, global travel agencies, and corporate clients, all while staying true to their Yorkshire roots.

Rachel said “I’m absolutely over the moon to be recognised as a Digital Star in such a competitive category. Myself and my team pour our heart and souls into Uniquely Local, so it’s incredibly special to have all the hard work and dedication acknowledged in this way."

Now in its ninth year, The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the smallest and greatest firms in the UK, across all sectors. It is organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions, inspires and accelerates the nation’s 5.45 million small firms.

Over 80 small business were shortlisted across 11 categories, from high street heroes and sole traders to sustainability leaders. This year, the Small Awards is sponsored by digital marketing leader Constant Contact.

Uniquely Local Experiences won the award alongside 10 other winning small firms from across the UK.

"Small businesses are the heart and soul of their communities and make huge contributions to the UK economy. Every year, the Small Awards recognize their efforts," said Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain and the Small Awards.

“Congratulations to Uniquely Local Experiences, who really impressed our team and judges with their story. We can’t wait to hear all about their future success.”

Erika Robinson, UK General Manager at Constant Contact, said: “Constant Contact exists to help small businesses succeed and grow, and the Small Awards shine a much-deserved spotlight on the incredible entrepreneurs doing just that.

“Our research shows that 79 percent of Brits feel small businesses positively impact their lives - and this year’s winners exemplify that impact through their innovation, resilience and deep community roots. We’re proud to support their efforts and their vital role in driving the UK economy forward.”

The Small Awards was judged by a panel of leading enterprise experts. Guests enjoyed a night of entertainment at St Mary’s church in London, with performances by the London City Voices choir and catering by independent providers.

To find out more about the winners visit www.thesmallawards.uk