Proud to support the 2026 Cumbria Food Awards
With over 20 years’ experience of supporting the hospitality sector, The Cumberland are proud to be a new associate sponsor of the 2026 Cumbria Food Awards.
Taking place at Kendal College on 12th March, the awards evening will be hosted by TV presenter Chris Bavin, who will announce the winners of 13 competitive categories and three special awards in front of an audience of 165 finalists, sponsors and industry leaders.
The Cumberland, which supports businesses across the North of England and Scotland, is sponsor of the new Growing Strong Award, designed to recognise businesses that have demonstrated exceptional growth and development during the previous 12 months.
Head of Commercial Scott McKerracher explained that the economic climate remains one of the major challenges for the hospitality industry but that brilliant businesses, of which there are hundreds in Cumbria, can come through tough times by innovating and diversifying – which will be recognised by the new award.
The Cumberland are keen to support the Cumbria Food Awards, recognising the key role the hospitality industry plays in the UK’s economy – something that can sometimes be overlooked.
In Cumbria, a successful hospitality sector helps to bring in visitors and boost the economy further: “It just plays such a vital role in Cumbria. Food, drink and hospitality helps communities come together.”
The Cumberland’s Commercial team works with businesses across four key sectors: hospitality, food and drink, healthcare and professional services.
Businesses are provided with a relationship-managed service, with access to a named contact who understands the sector in which they operate and their geographical area.
As Scott continued: “Our business customers are looking for people who understand them, understand the business and understand the sector in which they operate and that’s what we provide.”
Commercial customers have access to a named specialist lending contact at The Cumberland, while products, which are designed specifically for businesses in each sector, include commercial mortgages, long-term lending and working capital, plus business savings and current accounts.
Kinder banking is at the heart of everything The Cumberland has to offer, and its support of Cumbria Food Awards is a natural extension of this.
The awards, which are free to enter, are now open for business entries and nominations.