1284 managing director George Oliver took home the Top Table Award at the Alternative Business Awards 2026.

Held at The Y Theatre in Leicester, the annual event  - organised by Big Difference Company, the charity behind the Leicester Comedy Festival - celebrates individuals who take a different approach to business.

Sponsored by ER Recruitment and Red Monkey Play, the event was once again hosted by Teesside comedian Pat Monahan with photos of the night captured by Leicester photographer Pete Martin.

As well as being nominated for Top Table favourite, George was also shortlisted in the Content Catalyst category, reflecting 1284’s continued focus on delivering innovative, straight-talking communications that deliver results for clients across multiple sectors.

George was presented with the Top Table accolade alongside:

• Angela Orton, Managing Director of Structural Adhesives
• Dr Cham Kang, President of East Midlands Chamber
• Professor Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University
• Sue Tilley, Chair of Leicestershire Business Voice.

Having won ABA awards in previous years, this latest recognition marks a successful return to the awards, with George securing a place among this year’s winners.

“Winning the Top Table Award probably says more about my diary than anything else, but I’ll take it,” George said.

“The Leicester business community is a great place to be and ABA events are where the best conversations happen and networks get built.

“I apparently now have a reputation for being everywhere, so it’s nice to make it official.

“The Alternative Business Awards is always a brilliant night and a chance to catch up with people across the region - so I’ll probably still be at the next year as well!”

The Alternative Business Awards form part of Big Difference Company’s wider work, which includes the Leicester Comedy Festival and UK Kids’ Comedy Festival, supporting communities through arts and culture.