Celebrating Wigan’s manufacturing stars, now with an even stronger legal team. Alker Ball Healds (ABH), now part of Farleys, is stepping up as a proud sponsor of the Manufacturing Award at this year’s Wigan Borough Business Awards 2025.

The aim of the awards is to highlight entrepreneurs, innovators, and homegrown talent in the borough. From fresh start-ups to established powerhouses, these awards are all about putting the spotlight on businesses that give life and energy to the borough and the wider North West.

Manufacturing has always been a driving force in Wigan, supporting jobs, sparking innovation, and giving the area its distinctive character.

Farleys Solicitors has long supported local businesses across the North West, guiding everyone from family-run operations to larger regional names through the twists and turns of commercial law. Our team knows just how important manufacturing is to Wigan’s economy, so backing this award is our way of recognising the hard work, creativity, and resilience that keep local industry ticking.

With ABH now part of Farleys following the acquisition, the team brings even deeper roots in the Wigan community. ABH’s longstanding reputation for trusted legal advice has been expanded to Farleys’ broader offering, strengthening our commitment to local businesses. Sponsoring the Manufacturing Award is a perfect way to give back and celebrate a sector that’s woven into both firms’ histories.

The Manufacturing Award itself is always a hot contest, spotlighting companies big and small that stand out for innovation, sustainability, or simply keeping the tradition of quality local production alive. Past winners have gone on to bigger things including new investments, new partners, and wider recognition.

This year, organisers received a bumper crop of entries. After some challenging times, Wigan’s manufacturers have shown real bounce-back spirit, and there’s no shortage of inspiring stories. Whether it’s engineering firms going digital or adventurous businesses creating everything from snacks to top-tier materials, the award celebrates it all.

Keith Whitehead, of ABH part of Farleys, said,

We’re absolutely delighted to be sponsoring the Manufacturing Award at this year’s Wigan Borough Business Awards. Manufacturing is the backbone of Wigan, and now, with ABH part of Farleys, we’re in an even better position to champion the businesses that make a real difference. We can’t wait to celebrate their achievements.

The awards night, taking place at the Brick Community Stadium, promises all the excitement you’d expect. Leaders, thinkers, and doers from every corner of the borough will be there, ready to recognise the best of Wigan’s business community. You can view all of the awards and finalists here.

For previous winners, the award has meant more than just a shiny trophy; it’s validation for all the hard work and a springboard to new opportunities. It’s a sign that those long hours and tough decisions really do get noticed.

Whether you’re a manufacturer, a business owner, or someone who loves seeing local talent get their due, keep an eye on the awards this year and join us in celebrating all Wigan has to offer.

You can find out more information about the Wigan Borough Business Awards here.