Entrepreneur lands award shortlist spot

A Northumberland removals and transport business has been shortlisted for a national entrepreneurship award after rapidly expanding its franchise network across the UK.

Alnwick-based Your Man With A Van (YMWAV) has been named a finalist in the Start-Up Entrepreneur of the Year category at the 2026 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

The recognition is for co-director Cat Robson-Scarborough, who was selected from a field of more than 5000 applicants from across the country.

Founded as a removals, delivery and transport service, YMWAV launched its franchise model in January 2024 and has since grown to more than 65 branches nationwide.

The business has also amassed more than 3000 five-star reviews and maintains a 99 per cent five-star rating across its network.

The rapid expansion from a single branch to a national operation in less than two years secured its place on the shortlist alongside businesses from sectors including technology, hospitality and retail.

Cat said: “When Dan started this in 2010 with one van and a genuinely ridiculous work-ethic, awards weren’t part of the plan. 

“The franchise is two years old and we already have 65 branches. 

“That’s not my achievement. 

“It belongs to every franchisee who said yes to this idea, packed their van on a Monday morning and went out and built something real in their town.”

Established in 2012, the Great British Entrepreneur Awards celebrate founders who have built successful businesses without the backing of large corporate organisations.

Winners will be announced later this year at the awards ceremony.

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