Softwood Books named finalist in National Small Business Awards 2026

Suffolk-based publisher, Softwood Books has been named a finalist in the National Small
Business Awards 2026.

The awards, which celebrate its 10-year anniversary this year, showcases small businesses
across the country, recognising passion, customer experience, growth, and community
impact.

The Stowmarket publisher has been shortlisted in two categories: the Arts & Creative Small
Business and the Professional Services Small Business.

CEO Maddy Glenn said: “We’re delighted to be named as a finalist for two national business
awards. We’ve experienced an extraordinary period of expansion over the last 12 months as
more and more writers choose to work with us to publish their books.

“From children’s picture books to fantasy novels, from memoirs to business books, we’ve seen our authors achievesuccess as well, and I’m so grateful to everyone in the team, particularly all our new staff
members, for their hard work in supporting our authors.”

This is not the first brush with success for Softwood, which last year published Larry Lamb’s
(Gavin & Stacey) debut novel. It takes pride in publishing East Anglian authors and recently
announced sponsorships of both Suffolk Sound radio and All Booked Up, a new book
festival taking place at Newmarket Racecourse in March 2027.

The Small Business Awards highlight small, independent businesses and the role they play in
their local communities. Winners will be announced on 13th November at live event at Rutland
Hall Hotel.