Electrolux Professional HPe refrigerated and freezer cabinets

News

The range offers exceptionally low energy consumption while maintaining maximum usable capacity

Choose a product that goes beyond expectations, setting the bar for a reliable and cost-effective operation.

Electrolux Professional solutions for refrigeration include the new High Performing and Efficiency (HPe) line of professional refrigerated and freezer cabinets that offer exceptionally low energy consumption whilst maintaining maximum usable capacity, with consumption of 299kWh/year and net capacity of 503 litres in a standard full door cabinet.

The optimal 90mm thick insulation, the high efficiency components and all the intelligent strategies are designed and implemented to reduce energy consumption.

Replacing a class G appliance with an Electrolux ecostore Premium HPe in class A can cut your electricity bill by up to 80%.

For more information visit: www.electroluxprofessional.com


Smarter Ventilation for Commercial Kitchens: How Intelli-Hood® UK Reduces Energy Use and Running Costs

News

Many commercial kitchens still run their extraction systems at full power from open to close. It keeps the space safe, but it also means high electricity use, higher carbon output and unnecessary strain on equipment.

Intelli-Hood® offers a different approach. Using temperature and optic sensors, the system adjusts fan speeds to match actual cooking activity. When the kitchen is quieter, the fans slow down. When demand rises, the system responds instantly. The result is a safer, calmer and more efficient working environment.

What Difference Does It Make?

Kitchens using Intelli-Hood® typically see energy savings of up to 70 per cent. Carbon output can fall by a similar amount, and many sites achieve payback within 12 to 18 months. Because the system fits onto existing canopies and ductwork, installation is usually completed in a single night.

Teams also report quieter kitchens, better air quality and a noticeable reduction in heat build-up during busy service.

Why the Technology Stands Out

Intelli-Hood® uses patented dual-sensing technology and includes online monitoring and reporting as standard. It can be installed on both new and existing systems and is supported by a technical team with more than 35 years of experience in Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation.

The system is widely used across hotels, universities, restaurants, hospitals and global brands, with more than 100,000 installations in over 120 countries.

Working with Elgin Bay

Elgin Bay is the exclusive UK partner for Intelli-Hood®. Our team handles installation, support and ROI analysis so operators can see the impact before committing to a project. Finance options are also available, which can help keep monthly payments close to current energy spend.

For more information or to arrange a survey, visit www.intelli-hood.co.uk or contact info@intelli-hood.co.uk


ceda’s Technical Support Group welcomes new Vice Chair and Member

News

ceda is delighted to announce updates to its Technical Support Group (TSG) membership.

ceda’s TSG is one of the key elements of the organisation. It is made up of knowledgeable people from both ceda Members and Partners who have areas of experience and expertise that enable the group to address virtually any technical issue that may be seen as a problem for Members.

Darren Sandon, Managing Director at Crystaltech Services UK Ltd, is a long-standing member of the TGS and has been promoted to the position of Vice Chair. He said, “I am deeply honoured to accept the appointment of Vice Chair for the ceda Technical Support Group. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Ben Hatherley for his exceptional leadership and for his trust in choosing me as his successor; I look forward to building upon his strong legacy when I take over the role in November 2026.”

Of his decision to appoint Darren, ceda’s TSG Chair, Ben Hatherley explains, “I have known Darren for some time whilst serving on the TSG, and have a great admiration of his experience, knowledge and professionalism. This was the pivotal reasons why I asked Darren to ultimately succeed me, as I know he will be an excellent Chair and will lead the TSG with same enthusiasm.”

Justin Ring, ceda’s Community Development Manager (Technical) agrees with Ben’s choice of Vice Chair. He comments, “I think Ben’s choice of Darren as Vice Chair is an excellent appointment. Darren brings a wealth of experience and has been instrumental in building strong technical foundations across a range of service environments. I’m really looking forward to working more closely with him as he steps into his new role.”

Leroy Fearon, Regional Service Manager Northern Europe for Unox UK Ltd, is the latest edition to the TSG membership. Of his appointment he said, “I’m genuinely honoured to have been invited to join the Technical Support Group. ceda has played a huge role in shaping our industry for decades, but what has impressed me most is how much the organisation has evolved over the past five years. They have modernised, adapted, and continued to raise standards while staying true to their core values.

“For me, that focus on values and standards is what makes ceda stand out. They represent the best of what our industry can be: collaborative, forward thinking, and committed to excellence. I am proud to contribute, learn, and hopefully add value alongside so many respected peers in the TSG.”

Ben is thrilled to have Leroy onboard. He enthuses, “It is fantastic to have Leroy on the TSG and I am looking forward to working with him and seeing what knowledge and experience he brings to the group from a manufacturers background, not only the UK but Northern Europe. I believe his involvement will help shape the industry here in the UK for the betterment of our members.”

Welcome Leroy.”

Justin adds, “Leroy is another fantastic addition to the group – someone who is proactive and engaged with the changes happening across our industry, both socially and operationally. He has mentored many within the sector, and I’m excited to see the insight and energy he’ll bring to our ongoing developments.

“I look forward to working with both Darren and Leroy – they will each play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our sector.”

In recent years the TSG has worked hard to produce many useful Guidance and Standard documents which are readily available to ceda Member engineers and teams working at the coal face of the industry via the new ceda4 App. There is also a library of training videos covering plumbing, electrical and gas requirements for site installation works. The TSG will be helping with the further development of new content to ensure full coverage of the many technical training needs of ceda Members.

The TSG holds four meetings each year, with two of them being regional where all members are invited. The next meeting will be a Southern meeting, on 9th of February at Unox UK. An announcement for attendance will be issued next week.


Unlock a free service package for your customers with every new Merrychef conneX12e®

Reliability you can trust. Backup you can count on.

Your entry into Food to Go. Ideal for operators looking to add hot food to their menu.

We are excited to introduce a new promotion designed to bring even more value to your customers and drive Merrychef conneX®12e sales.

From now until 10th February 2026, every purchase of a Merrychef conneX®12e oven qualifies for a FREE 12-month Premium Service Package (worth £250) and a FREE 12-month subscription to KitchenConnect®.

To redeem:

  1. Customers need to purchase a qualifying conneX®12e oven within the promotional period.
  2. You complete the Welbilt TotalCare® registration form on the customer’s behalf to activate their free service package.
    Download the registration form here

What your customers receive

  • 12-month Premium Service Package, which includes priority callout within 24 hours, 7 days a week, including bank holidays.
  • 12-month KitchenConnect® subscription, allowing customers to monitor all their ovens remotely, update menus and view performance.
  • Operation and user training at installation.
  • Free access to the Ready Recipes tool on the Merrychef website, providing a wide range of menu ideas.
  • Usage and cleaning guides via the Merrychef website and YouTube channel.
  • Comprehensive ongoing service and support from our nationwide team, delivering 95% first-time fix rates.

Marketing support

To help you promote this offer to your customers, you can download the official promotional flyer here:

conneX 12e promo flyer
conneX 12e promo flyer (add your logo)

Call to action

Encourage your customers to take advantage of this limited-time offer. It is available on all qualifying conneX®12e purchases made before 10th February 2026.

Contact marketing@merrychef.com for inquiries.

About Merrychef conneX®12e

Born connected, fully trained and ready for action!

Our compact stylish counter-top oven is designed to allow any business to access professional high speed equipment and deliver consistent, hot food, fast.

Whether offering hot food for the first time, or expanding your menu, the Merrychef conneX® 12e offers an affordable, entry priced, versatile appliance that can cook, grill, toast and reheat food from fresh or frozen. It really does do it all!

Popular items such as paninis and pizzas are pre-programmed in the cookbook so with just one press of a food image, anyone in your team can deliver high quality food on demand, avoiding food waste and additional labour costs.

Designed for plug & play, the Merrychef conneX® 12e is ventless and runs off a low amp plug, eliminating installation costs. In addition the energy saving standby mode will help you to maximise your profits and save on excess energy costs.

Furthermore, it connects to our online menu management system meaning if you have more than one operation, you can efficiently ‘send’ your new menus directly to the ovens as well as remotely monitor your equipment.

  • 3-4 months ROI for smaller operators*
  • 70% faster than other conventional cooking methods
  • Easy to use, freeing up staff to continue to serve
  • Easily manages low to medium throughput
  • Operates quietly so as not to disturb service
  • Energy efficient < 0.7kWh on standby
  • Heats up in less than 10 mins
  • Easy to clean, with a front facing air filter for easy access
  • Fits anywhere, compact with cool-to-touch sides.

* based on an average of 25 cooks per day

Expand your menu offerings

Expand your menu offerings with free access to Merrychef Ready Recipes that provides a wide range high speed oven-ready dishes, seasonal favourites, and signature creations, all designed for busy operations.

Go to Merrychef Ready Recipes >

Included accessories

To get you started, every order includes the following dishwasher-compatible items:


Classeq: The Power of Simple. Multiplied

The Power of Simple. Multiplied

Introducing the latest new generation machines from Classeq – the CP500 Pass Through and C500 Utensil.

2024 started a new chapter for Classeq as we launched of our completely reimagined Undercounter Range. The feedback from our distributor partners was overwhelmingly positive. They told us it was simple to sell, simple to install, and simple to maintain… all without compromising on performance. It was a clear signal that we were on the right track.

Now, we’ve followed the same development approach and applied it to two new models:

Meet the CP500 and CP500SR
The new Pass Through has been designed around operators, our distributors, and the everyday pressures of the hospitality world.

Following the lead of the undercounter range, the new Pass Through range has been simplified, yet still offers more standard equipment.

  • Drain pump, rinse booster pump, detergent and rinse aid pumps all fitted as standard.
  • New click-in, click-out wash arms, a double filtration system, deep clean programme and refresh cycle.
  • New energy saving standby mode.
  • New Bluetooth® app.
  • New utensil wash programme with optional basket for Gastronorm 1/1 trays.
  • New guided descaling programme.
  • New optional audible alarm.
  • Optional integral water softener with new low salt audible alarm.
  • New hygiene and service reminders.
  • Range of tabling available, including support for bespoke requirements.
  • WRAS Compliant – Type AB air gap.
  • Four power options – single phase, 30 Amp or three phase, 12, 16 or 22 Amp. On site flexibility to convert 12 and 16 Amp three phase models to 30 Amp, single phase.

Steam Recovery. Simplified.
The CP500SR features our new Steam Recovery Unit, a first for Classeq’s Pass Through range.

This new option minimises the steam released into the kitchen, eliminating the need for extraction and creating a more comfortable workspace. At just 2.12m high, the machine can fit into kitchens with low ceiling heights.

Introducing the new C500 Utensil
Based on the proven C500 undercounter machine, The C500 Utensil adds more – more space and more flexibility.

The enlarged wash tank is designed to wash larger items, with space for up to five 1/1 gastronorm trays. The specially designed utensil wash programme then adds more heat and more time to ensure high quality wash results.

  • Supplied with two utensil baskets designed to hold up to five 1/1 gastronorm trays or chopping boards. The basket uprights are 72mm apart allowing trays up to 65mm deep to fit in standing.
  • Enlarged wash tank with a depth of 628mm and door opening size of 349mm.
  • Seven minute utensil wash programme with higher wash and rinse temperatures to maximise wash results.
  • Drain pump, rinse booster pump, detergent and rinse aid pumps all fitted as standard.
  • Energy saving standby mode.
  • Deep clean programme and refresh cycle.
  • Optional integral water softener with new low salt audible alarm.

Plus, by adding optional plate baskets and switching to the standard wash programme the machine can be used as a dishwasher, washing up to 540 plates per hour..

A Simple App
Like the undercounter range launched last year, the new models are compatible with our Bluetooth® app. The app gives operators and service technicians instant access to user guides, machine settings, performance data, and service information.

Made in Britain, Next Day Delivery, Two Year Warranty
Like every product in the Classeq range, both the new CP500 and C500 Utensil are designed, developed and built in Staffordshire. Our UK manufacturing means we can offer next working day delivery across the range. Every model comes complete with a two year warranty.

Ongoing Support
We have a nationwide team of specialist warewashing technicians that can support with installations, servicing and repairs. We’re here to support you throughout the lifetime of your machine.

A New Generation
These latest models complete the new generation of Classeq machines, all built with simplicity and robustness at their core. All designed to be simple for partners to specify, install and service and for hospitality operators to use, clean and maintain.

Visit Classeq.co.uk to explore our full range.


Panasonic Professional Kitchen Revolutionises Self-Service with the New Intelligent Computerised Microwave

News

Deliver hot, high-quality meals 24/7 – without professional staff.

Panasonic Professional Kitchen continues to innovate in commercial cooking with the launch of the NE-186N Intelligent Computerised Microwave (ICM). Designed for self-service environments such as hospitals, staff kitchens, break rooms, cafeterias, and food service stations, it makes serving hot meals fast, consistent, and effortless.

Why the NE-186N is different:

  • Scan-to-heat system: Simply scan the QR code on a ready meal and the microwave instantly starts the correct heating cycle
  • Energy-efficient cooking: Panasonic’s Inverter Technology delivers even results while reducing energy use
  • Customisable memory pads: Store up to 100 heating profiles for single or multi-stage meals
  • Durable and hygienic: Easy-to-clean surfaces, splatter shield, and air filter
  • Stackable design: Save valuable workspace

The ICM is not just a microwave – it’s a smarter way to serve

Launching December 2025, The Panasonic NE-186N Intelligent Computerised Microwave is the perfect solution for organisations looking to provide consistently hot, high-quality meals around the clock.

For more information:
Email commercial.ovens@eu.panasonic.com


Aqua Cure: Water Purity Experts

We are pleased to announce that Aqua Cure are now live on Auto Quotes, for all ceda’s commercial kitchens water treatment requirements. Log into Auto Quotes today and search for Aqua Cure to see the products listed.

If you have any questions about the product selection, please contact us and our dedicated foodservice team will be happy to help and assist you. You can contact us either by telephone or email.

Ben Smith
Key Account Manager for Food Service
ben.smith@aquacure.co.uk
01704 516916

Tom Doyle
Business Development Executive
Tom.Doyle@aquacure.co.uk
01704 516916

WHO NEEDS PAPER CATALOGS? QUOTE DIGITALLY WITH AQ.

Say goodbye to traditional quoting processes. AQ does all the hard work so that you can quickly and easily configure, price and quote from nearly 1,000,000 pieces of equipment, supplies and accessories from more than 800 manufacturers.


Cater-Bake UK launches Black Friday early: 55% off Stima fast-cook ovens for UK hospitality

News

Cater-Bake UK today announced its Black Friday offer is live early, delivering 55% off the Stima Fast-Cook Oven range to operators across cafés, bars, stadium kiosks, concessions, food courts and event venues. The Italian-made, ventless pizza ovens deliver authentic stone-baked results without a flue, run at up to 520°C, and are engineered for high output with low energy consumption—ideal for peak service and queue control.

Why Stima for Black Friday?

No flue or external ventilation required — in-built carbon-activated filtration and extractor hood.

High performance, low consumption design; space-saving footprint for tight sites.

Stone-baked authenticity at up to 520°C for shock cooking and fast service.

Versatile menu capability: pizza, toasties, garlic bread, bread, lasagne, vegetables, and more.

Four sizes available with 13 kW options; single-phase or 3-phase.

Quality made in Italy; built for real-world commercial kitchens and mobile/event setups.

Black Friday prices (55% off, ex-VAT)

Stima VP2 – https://cater-bake.co.uk/products/stima-vp2-fast-cook-pizza-oven/

Stima VP2XL – https://cater-bake.co.uk/products/stima-vp2xl-fast-cook-pizza-oven/

Stima VP3 – https://cater-bake.co.uk/products/stima-vp3-fast-cook-pizza-oven/

Stima VP3XL – https://cater-bake.co.uk/products/stima-vp3xl-fast-cook-pizza-oven/

Scott Robson National Sales Manager at Cater-Bake UK, said, “We brought Black Friday forward because operators need capacity now. Stima’s ventless, stone-bake performance lets sites add pizza without a refit—perfect for December trading when queues matter most.”

Get in touch:
🌐 cater-bake.co.uk
📞 0151 548 5818
📧 info@cater-bake.co.uk


Moffat Go-M

News

The Go-M is an exciting range of heated and chilled merchandisers.

Packed with innovate features including 24-hour operation, zonal temperature control and low energy consumption.

Our Go-M range is engineered with energy efficiency at its core, delivering measurable savings compared to alternatives on the market.

  • 25% less energy than other leading brands
  • 42% less energy than traditional displays

Improved energy efficiency means not only lower running costs but also a reduced carbon footprint, helping businesses to operate with more sustainability.

There are six heated and two chilled models available, countertop and floor standing. Three height options and two width options offer maximum flexibility.

More information can be found on our website – www.ermoffat.co.uk

As with all Moffat products the Go-M is manufactured to UKCA standards and comes with a two-year parts and labour warranty.


Celebrating 10 years of the ceda Rising Star Award

News

For a decade, the ceda Rising Star Award has recognised outstanding emerging talent in the catering equipment sector; individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent, capability and potential in their early careers.

From its inception in 2015, this award has become a symbol of aspiration, inspiration, and the bright future that new generations bring to our industry.

We’ve been chatting to some of the past winners of the Award, reminiscing about the year they won, and their thoughts and feelings and reactions on the night…

“I think the ceda Rising Star Awards are a fantastic initiative, and I’m really pleased to see it still going strong. It was an honour to be part of it, and it’s great to celebrate 10 years of recognising emerging talent in our industry.” said Tyron Stephens-Smith of TAG, winner of the first Rising Star Award in 2015. He’s reminiscent about that time in his career, acknowledging it being a period of transition, not just for him, but also TAG, “Winning the Rising Star Award was a significant milestone in my career. At the time, we were transitioning from smaller projects to delivering large-scale rollouts for some major clients. The recognition on the night and from the wider industry in the weeks and months that followed, was a real confidence boost. It reinforced my appreciation for the collaborative and supportive culture within the sector.”

“The year I won the Rising Star Award was, at the time, the most surreal and exciting time of my career,” says Paul Holder (formally of Court Catering) and 2017’s recipient. “It was still relatively early on in my career, so the idea of being nominated was humbling and intimidating. Walking up to accept the award felt like a recognition of all the hard work and effort I had put in up until that point. The recognition from peers and industry leaders felt like a pivotal moment. It wasn’t just about the award itself, but what it represented; other people in the industry were seeing my potential.”

Joanne Hamilton, a joint winner in 2021, agrees. She said, “Winning the Rising Star Award was an incredibly proud and humbling moment in my career. I remember the year vividly – it was a period of growth, challenges, and hard work. The nomination felt like a meaningful validation of the effort I had been putting into my work, and it motivated me to continue striving for excellence. The response to my win from my employer and colleagues was incredibly encouraging; there was a real sense of shared pride across the team. The recognition boosted my confidence but also reinforced my commitment to contributing meaningfully to the industry.

“Coming from an engineering background, I never expected to be nominated for such a prestigious award, let alone win it!” confesses 2023 winner, Justin Ring. “It was both motivating and a real eye-opener. I’ve always felt that the field service side of our sector often flies under the radar, so being recognised not only for my work but for the contribution of industry changes was massive.”

Billy Dyson, the 2024 winner recalls feeling a mixture of emotions to winning the award. He said, “I felt overwhelmed, excited, and privileged to even be nominated, never mind win. The feeling when your name is called out is always nice but especially in an industry where you follow in your parent’s footsteps. It was such an amazing feeling and one I’ll cherish for a long time. It made me feel like all the hard work I had put into my role was paying off and it certainly boosted my industry-related confidence.”

ABDA’s Amie Rice is the most recent winner, receiving her award in June 2025, and so her memories and feelings are still fresh. “I felt very honoured to be nominated; it was great to know that my hard work was being noticed. On the day I felt so anxious and nervous as I knew that every single person nominated deserved that award. Hearing my name called out was amazing! I felt an instant feeling of relief and pride. Having made so many friends in the industry as well, it felt like a lot of people were celebrating with me so that was also so special. I feel so privileged to work in an industry that celebrates the young people who work in it.”

The 2025 Nick Archer Technical Rising Star was Isabelle Harvey of IFES. She said, “When I first found out I’d been nominated, I remember thinking, “Wow, I must actually be doing something right!” It felt like a turning point; the start of getting more involved and connected within the industry. On the night itself, I was unbelievably proud! I felt so happy knowing I’d achieved something, not only for myself but for IFES as well. I could see how proud my colleagues were too, which made it even more special. What surprised me most was the reaction from suppliers and customers. I had people I didn’t know reaching out to congratulate me!”

All the winners credit the accolade with developing their careers. They are unanimous in the positive impact the Award has had for them both personally and professionally…

Tyron comments, “Since receiving the award, I have progressed to the role of Managing Director. I genuinely believe that the Rising Star Award helped lay the foundation for that journey, by opening doors and providing invaluable industry visibility.”

Paul says his career has gone from strength to strength. “The recognition opened doors that I didn’t even know existed. I started to gain more opportunities for further professional development with the ceda Academy and a short stint on the ceda TSG. It helped elevate my credibility in the industry and gave me more confidence to take on more responsibilities.

“Winning the award gave me a network of incredible mentors and peers whose relationships have been invaluable. The recognition acted as a seal of approval that allowed me to take bigger risks and pursue new challenges, which ultimately led me to starting my own business. Specialising in the service, repair and installation of catering equipment, some of those same mentors are now valued customers!”

“The ceda Rising Star Award played a meaningful role in elevating my professional profile, not only within my organisation but across the wider industry,” says Joanne. “It gave me a platform to connect with peers, leaders, and innovators, many of whom I may not have engaged with otherwise.”

“The award acted as a catalyst, opening doors to new opportunities, whether it was contributing to industry panels, taking on leadership roles, or mentoring emerging talent. More importantly, it instilled a sense of confidence that has stayed with me. Being recognised as a “Rising Star” validated the path I was on and encouraged me to continue pushing boundaries, both personally and professionally. Since then, I have now been promoted to Company Manager and overseeing the full company.”

“Winning the award opened more doors than I knew existed,” admits Justin. “Suddenly I was connecting with people across the industry, building relationships, and learning more than ever. It helped me develop not just as an engineer, but as someone who understands the bigger picture of how our industry works and where it’s going. In short – it accelerated my career development.”

Billy attributes his current role with winning the Rising Star Award, “Since winning the award I have furthered my career by taking on a new role working with a large national account client that’s has massively improved my skill set and continues to do daily. The role wasn’t available to just anyone and I believe my award certainly assisted with my successful appointment of this position.”

Whilst having only gained her accolade in June of this year, Isabelle is already feeling the effects of her win. She said, “Winning the Rising Star Award has given me extra confidence and a “can do” attitude. It’s made me push myself more, and I believe its opened doors for me in the industry. Before, most people didn’t know who I was or where I was from. After the win, it felt like people suddenly knew my name and wanted to talk to me. I remember going to an event a few months later and someone I’d never met came over just to say congratulations. The award has helped me to build a network I wouldn’t have otherwise had. If there’s one main takeaway it’s that winning gave me the push to put myself out there more, and I haven’t looked back since!”

The alumni all have pieces of advice to offer those starting out in the industry, or considering the industry as a career option…

“Fully embrace the pace and variety of this industry,” states Tyron. “It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving space that offers far more than you might expect at first glance. Many of us entered the industry by chance and stayed for a lifetime. There’s real opportunity here for those who are committed and curious.”

“Stay curious, embrace the learning process, and build meaningful relationships,” offers Paul. “The industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. It’s easy to get caught up in just completing day-to-day tasks but you must take the time to understand the bigger picture and the trends shaping the industry.

“I’d also say take risks. It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. And most importantly, don’t underestimate the power of networking and mentorship. Having a group of trusted friends and colleagues at the end of the phone can make all the difference in how quickly you grow and succeed. I am very grateful to those who I asked for advice in different stages of my career.”

Paul’s words are echoed by Joanne. She also said, “Stay curious, be proactive, and never underestimate the value of building strong relationships. This industry rewards those who are willing to learn, adapt, and go the extra mile. Take every opportunity to ask questions, observe those with experience, and learn not just the technical side of the job, but also how to work collaboratively and communicate effectively. The industry is built on trust, reliability, and a shared commitment to high standards – developing those qualities early on will set you apart.”

“I’ve always been an advocate for this industry,” confesses Justin. “So much so that I’ve even been nudging my own family towards it! I stumbled into this sector when I was 18 and haven’t looked back since. It’s an incredible whirlwind of opportunities, career growth, and great people! Dive in, get your hands dirty, and say “yes” to learning everything you can. You’ll be surprised how far curiosity, and a good attitude can take you.”

Billy’s advice is simple. “Knuckle down, give everything 110% and focus on your goals. Working in this industry is amazing and can really shape your future if you put your heart and soul into it.”

“Don’t let mistakes knock you back,” offers Isabelle. “This is such a complex industry. People who’ve been in it for 20+ years still get things wrong sometimes! It’s all part of the learning curve. Most things can be fixed, and every mistake is a chance to learn. Stay positive, persevere, and keep asking questions; you’ll realise you’re not the only one trying to figure it out! And when you get it right, that feeling makes it all worth it.”

“Take any opportunity you’re offered,” declares Amie. “I attended multiple site visits in my first week which helped me to gain a lot of knowledge very quickly. Attend as many events as possible to network and meet other people. And ask questions. Lean on the experts and don’t worry if you think it’s a silly question – it’s not! The industry feels like one big community. Everyone is so friendly and always happy to help so take advantage of this.”

Adam Mason, ceda Director General, comments, “This has been quite an emotional piece to put together, it’s so nice to pause and reflect on the very real and very positive impacts that the Awards have had on people lives and careers.

“Every year we are blown away by the calibre, passion and energy that the nominees have for this Industry – they are an outstanding credit to themselves and their employers who embrace the opportunity to recognise and platform their young people.”

ceda Rising Star Award 2015 winner Tyron Stephens-Smith
ceda Rising Star Award 2017 winner Paul Holder
ceda Rising Star Award 2021 winner Joanne Hamilton
ceda Rising Star Award 2023 winner Justin Ring
ceda Rising Star Award 2024 winner Billy Dyson
ceda Rising Star Award 2025 winner Amie Rice
ceda Technical Rising Star Award 2025 winner Isabelle Harvey