BTS at the 14th British Kebab Awards
A £2.8bn contributor to the UK economy, led by SME entrepreneurship.
David Lammy and Natalia Cassel at the British Kebab Awards
Obviously in fashion, we have the Fashion Awards, but did you know last night was the 14th British Kebab Awards, hosting MPs including David Lammy and a plethora of politicians, staff and industry leaders.
Did you know that the UK kebab industry is estimated to contribute over £2.8 billion annually to the British economy and remains one of the most dynamic sectors within hospitality, supporting thousands of jobs. Did you know that over 99% of private businesses across the UK are SMEs, meaning small business entrepreneurs are the backbone of the economy. Ibrahim Dogus, the founder of the British Kebab Awards, was a refugee to the UK and has gone on to build multiple successful businesses in the hospitality industry. He realised firsthand therefore, the valuable contribution that these outlets bring to communities across the UK. And this was how 14 years ago the British Kebab Awards was born. Many of this year’s winners have deep roots in their local communities, employing local staff, sourcing locally where possible and supporting charitable initiatives. From Shawarma King in Glasgow’s city centre to Golden BBQ in Cardiff, and from Agora Restaurant in Southsea, to Anar Turkish BBQ in Liverpool, the awards reflect the strength of Britain’s regional hospitality landscape.
“I have attended the British Kebab Awards several times, as I support the prominence Ibrahim is giving to what is ultimately an immigrant success story. My father was not in the food industry, but many of his friends own Turkish restaurants, bars, takeaways, and kebab shops. I grew up knowing how hard these people work, the long hours, and sometimes facing racism and abuse from customers late at night. My Dad’s friend Salih was the first Turkish born mayor for St Albans, and a talented entrepreneur. Another, Kazim, owns Efes in Fitzrovia, which has long been a London institution. When I travel across the UK, it is often a Turkish run kebab shop, which is open when everywhere else is closed. Shining a light on these SME entrepreneurs is a positive story about what immigration brings to the UK economy and one which I feel we need to hear more often.” Tamara Cincik.
Natalia Cassel at the British Kebab Awards last night.
“Last night’s 14th annual British Kebab Awards in Westminster reminded us just how firmly the kebab has taken its place in British culture. The industry reflects the many people who’ve come to this country, rolled up their sleeves, and contributed to our way of life with real hard graft - bringing their flavours, their traditions, and their determination with them. As Ibrahim Dogus said, eating a kebab at the end of the night is often the sign of a good night out. But it’s also a sign of how Britain grows stronger and more vibrant thanks to those who join us and help to positively shape our shared story.” Natalia Cassel, Cassel Consultancy, Comms Partner for Fashion Roundtable.
Photos by Mark Goddard.