NITAs 2025 Winners Announced
The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) has announced the winners of the 2025 National Innovation in Training Awards (NITAs).
The NITAs and People Conference celebrate the exceptional individuals and businesses in the pub sector who put people at the heart of hospitality. Each year, the awards recognise those who go above and beyond to champion training, development, sustainability and wellbeing within their teams, ensuring a thriving and sustainable future for the sector.
This year’s winners were revealed at the NITAs Awards Ceremony, held at Porchester Hall London on 20th November, where over 300 industry professionals, operators and colleagues, came together to share best practice, celebrate achievement, and honour those setting new standards in hospitality excellence.
This year, after an incredible raft of apprentices in the Hospitality Apprentice of the Year categories, the BII also recognised three Workforce Apprentice Heroes, hand-picked by the judging panel for their incredible attitude, determination and spirit, and presented by the BII’s new chair, Clive Price.
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments was the presentation of the Franca Knowles Live Your Life Award, selected by a panel of previous winners and chaired by Keith Knowles OBE. This award celebrates individuals in the sector who embody Franca’s legacy of positivity, passion, and dedication to people development. Huge congratulations to James Nye, Managing Director of Anglian Country Inns for winning this incredibly special award in 2025.
Steven Alton, CEO of the BII, said:
“The NITAs recognise the incredible people and organisations who make our sector such an inspiring and rewarding place to work. Each of our winners has shown an exceptional commitment to nurturing their teams, supporting wellbeing, and driving innovation across their businesses. Their dedication and passion help ensure our pubs and hospitality venues continue to sit at the heart of every community.
“Evenings like this remind us all just how incredible our sector is, filled with people who do amazing things every single day for their guests, teams and communities.”