Family-led security business take home two awards at SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2026
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised for our sustainability efforts. It’s something we’ve been building over a number of years, and this award reflects the commitment of our whole team to making meaningful, long-term changes to how we operate"
The eighth annual SME Northamptonshire Business Awards took place at Franklin’s Gardens on Thursday 23rd April 2026, celebrating the achievements of outstanding small and medium-sized businesses across the region.
The SME Northamptonshire Business Awards are part of the national SME Business Awards that celebrates the success and raises the profile of hard-working companies across the UK.
ID Card Centre, a leading provider of identification, security and access control solutions took home two awards: Silver for Apprentice Employer of the Year and Gold for Sustainability Award.
Sustainability has become a key focus for the business, embedded across multiple areas of its operations. The company has invested in renewable energy, installing enough solar panels to power its entire premises, support neighbouring offices and export surplus energy back to the national grid. In addition, sustainable sourcing is central to its approach, with a strong emphasis on UK-manufactured products and an expanding range of eco-friendly solutions that enable customers to make environmentally responsible choices without compromising on quality.
Looking ahead, ID Card Centre remains committed to further strengthening its sustainability strategy. Planned initiatives include replacing all plastic tape in the warehouse with eco-friendly paper alternatives, expanding renewable energy capabilities with battery storage and continuing to reduce operational waste across all areas of the business.
Managing Director of ID Card Centre, Ben O’Brien, commented on taking home the Gold for sustainability, “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised for our sustainability efforts. It’s something we’ve been building over a number of years, and this award reflects the commitment of our whole team to making meaningful, long-term changes to how we operate.”
Through targeted recruitment initiatives with local schools, colleges and specialist training providers, the company has created opportunities for young people to enter the workplace and build rewarding careers. Many apprentices have progressed from trainee positions into specialist roles within the business.
Ben O’Brien added, “Our apprentices are a vital part of the business. We’re passionate about giving people the opportunity to learn and grow in a career with us and it’s fantastic to see so many of them progress and succeed.”
As the business continues to grow, ID Card Centre remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions while investing in the next generation of industry talent.