Dating back to the 1950s the annual prize giving event, taking place in February, celebrates the achievements of trainees, and now particularly apprentices, in the meat industry.
Such longevity and consistency demonstrates the commitment, made by both parties, to the training and development of skills and expertise in the industry and recognises the role and efforts of companies and meat industry training providers.
The IOM/WCB Awards for 2026 were held at the Butchers' Hall on 26th February when the following awards were presented:
The 2026 winners (as pictured above):
- Best New Apprentice: Liam Burton
- Best Retail Butchery Apprentice: Nikita Somma
- Best Independent Retailer Meat Apprentice: Joe Wadey
- Best Multiple Retail Butchery Apprentice: Faye sleight
- Best Meat Processing Apprentice: Rolaine Escano
- Best Abattoir Worker / Apprentice: Jochyl Mier
- Best Meat Apprentice Showing Management Potential in a Manufacturing Environment: Ashton Davis
- Best Meat Apprentice Showing Real Management Potential: Bradley Davey
- The Lord Graham Endeavour Award: Jimmy Mariano
- Best Company Training Scheme: Booker Group
- Best Meat Training Provider of the Year: Bishop Burton College
- Champion Meat Apprentice of the Year: Nikita Somma
All categories are sponsored, and winners receive cheques, trophies as well as other benefits.
