Shambles Restaurant and Bar has been shortlisted as a candidate for Britain's Best 'Family Business Legacy Award' at this year's Small Awards.  

Now in its ninth year, The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the UK's greatest small firms, across all sectors. It is organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions and supports the nation's 5.5 million small firms. 

Family-run Shambles was established in 1983 by Franco & Jackie Langella. In 2004, their children Massimo and Margherita took over the business and have been running it for the past 20 years.

Shambles was estabblished in 1983 (Credit: Kitt Garrett)

Shambles has always been at the heart of the community and provides the "very best" experience to make guests and locals feel welcome and valued.

The brother -sister duo focuses on providing the traditions of Italian cooking and Italian hospitality, using fresh seasonal produce from the British Isles and Italy with some ingredients grown onsite.

It has been selected as one of just eight finalists for the Legacy Award for best Family Business that recognises the unique challenges and strengths of family-run businesses.

Shambles demonstrates involvement and contribution from family members as well as its business success.

Speaking about the nomination, Shambles' Massimo Said: "Being selected as finalists in such a widely known National Award that celebrates all the UK's diverse small businesses is an absolute honour for Shambles and our team.

"In the 42 years of trading, this is one of our proudest moments and we would like to thank all our loyal guests for their support over the years, many of whom have also become great friends too."

This year, sponsored by marketing solution Constant Contact, the Small Awards celebrate the successes of Britain's small businesses, with eleven different awards for small firms leading the way across everything from sustainability to digital adoption, and showcasing all types of small businesses including social enterprises, family-owned businesses, sole traders and start-ups.

Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain said: "Every year, the Small Awards celebrate the UK's most inspiring small business owners, who are the heart of their communities, and are fuelling the nation's economic growth.  

"The awards are a great opportunity to recognise the success and contributions of so many small businesses - Shambles is extremely deserving of being a finalist, and we look forward to celebrating together in May."

Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winners of all categories, including the overall winner of the Small Business of the Year award, will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 22 May 2025.  

The ceremony will be held at St Mary's Church in London, with plans underway for a "fun-filled" night of celebration, entertainment, and inspiration for guests.

Erika Robinson, UK General Manager at Constant Contact, said: "SMEs represent over 99 per cent of the business population in the UK, so they play a vital role in boosting the British economy, and deserve to have their tenacity and success celebrated.

"Constant Contact is committed to helping small businesses succeed, so we're delighted to support The Small Awards this year and help celebrate the best of British SMEs."