Family-led business named finalist in three categories at SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2026
“To be recognised across three different categories is a real milestone for us"
A Northampton security business has been shortlisted across three categories at this year’s SME Northamptonshire Business Awards.
ID Card Centre, a leading provider of identification, security and access control solutions has been named a finalist for Apprentice Employer of the Year, the NatWest Service Excellence Award and the Snowdonia Hub Sustainability Award.
Managing Director, Ben O’Brien, and Co-Director, Nicola O’Brien, have built the business into the growing limited company it is today. The recognition highlights the husband-and-wife-led business’s continued growth and commitment to customer satisfaction and investment in future talent and the environment.
From humble beginnings, starting with just Ben and a part-time accounts colleague after he acquired the business from a previous colleague, ID Card Centre has grown steadily whilst navigating evolving technology, supply chain disruptions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Sustainability Award nomination reflects the company’s efforts to reduce environmental impact, while the Service Excellence category recognises its strong customer support and client satisfaction. The Apprentice Employer of the Year shortlist highlights its continued commitment to nurturing talent and developing the next generation of skilled professionals, with apprentices currently working across Sales and Marketing teams within the business.
Ben O’Brien comments, “To be recognised across three different categories is a real milestone for us. We’ve worked hard to build a business that not only delivers great service but also supports our team and adapts to the changing needs of our customers across government, education, healthcare industries and more.
“We’ve really focused on delivering consistently high-quality, responsive and customer-focused service. Our core value, Deliver Excellence, is embedded across the business through workshops, performance reviews, 1:1s and value-led recruitment, ensuring service standards are not just expected, but lived daily.
“We’re also passionate about supporting young people into the workplace. By investing in apprenticeships and creating opportunities across the business, we’re helping to develop the next generation of talent while strengthening our team for the future.”
Winners of the SME Northamptonshire Business Awards will be announced Thursday 23rd April.