The Marketing Derby Food and Drink Awards 2024 brought together the best of Derby’s food and drink scene, and we were privileged to be part of it.
This year, we had the pleasure of judging the highly anticipated Best Newcomer category at the 16th annual awards. This category recognises emerging businesses that bring something fresh to Derby’s food and drink scene.
Representing Balls2 Marketing, Katie Bregazzi and Sarah Dufton, both with extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, had the task of reviewing Derby’s top new talent, crowning Omomo as this year’s Best Newcomer.
A taste for talent
As a Derby-based marketing agency with roots in hospitality and consumer marketing, we’re passionate about supporting local food and drink businesses. Our team understands the challenges and dedication it takes to succeed in this industry, and we see these awards as the perfect opportunity to celebrate the talent and hard work of Derby’s newcomers.
Now in our third consecutive year as judges, we’ve witnessed first-hand just how tough it is to succeed in this industry, which makes these moments of recognition so much more rewarding. For us, it’s about more than picking a winner – it’s about celebrating Derby’s vibrant and eclectic food scene that continues to grow each year.
A look at this year’s Best Newcomer
This year’s finalists, Omomo, O’Dwyers Bar and Electric Daisy, showcased unique and innovative concepts, each firmly establishing themselves as key players in Derby’s food scene. With all three based in the city centre, it’s a positive indication of the city’s rising footfall and growing demand for quality dining.
It’s fair to say the Best Newcomer category was packed with strong contenders this year, but Omomo truly stood out. The team have brought something fresh and exciting to Derby, and their commitment to quality shone through in every aspect of their business. From the friendly, knowledgeable staff to the delicious food, they offered a dining experience that was both unique and welcoming.
Katie summed it up perfectly: “In a tough category with strong competition, Omomo still managed to shine head and shoulders above the rest. The staff were fantastic, the food outstanding, and the atmosphere made you feel so at home you didn’t want to leave.” Sarah added: “Omomo is a breath of fresh air in Derby’s food and beverage scene, and it’s working! Happy faces all around, and that’s tough in this industry.”
We couldn’t agree more – Omomo’s blend of great food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a passionate team made it the clear winner.
Celebrations all round
The awards night itself was a fantastic celebration of the talent in Derby’s food and drink industry. Held at The Chocolate Factory, the room was filled with business owners, industry leaders and local food lovers alike. When extra seats are pulled in, and award-winning teams struggle to fit on stage, it’s clear how much these awards mean to the local community.
John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby, opened the night with a reminder of just how significant the food and drink sector is to the city: ‘It’s a tough sector, and we know how hard it is to run a successful business. But the talent in the room tonight proves it’s thriving in Derby.” That sense of community and shared passion was felt throughout the evening, making it a night to remember for everyone involved.
Looking forward
Following the awards, the Derby Food and Drink Guide has returned for its second year, featuring over 50 past and present winners. It’s a fantastic resource for discovering the best places to eat and drink in Derby, many of which are independent and unique to the city. As a team, we can’t wait to work our way through the guide on our team social nights out!
Putting our expertise to work
Supporting Derby’s food and drink community is something we’re passionate about at Balls2 Marketing. Built on a foundation of glazing and construction experience, paired with Katie and Sarah’s combined experience working with national and international bars, restaurants, hotels, food and beverage brands, we understand the challenges that come with running a successful business in hospitality.
We’re proud to be part of a community that champions its local businesses, and we can’t wait to see what the next year brings for Derby’s food and drink scene.
For more information on the awards and this year’s winners, visit Marketing Derby here.
