Headcorn family business celebrates 25 years with regional award win

A family-run business based in Headcorn is celebrating its 25th anniversary after receiving a major regional honour at the National Family Business of the Year Awards 2026.

Chartway Janitorial won the People's Choice Award for London & the South East, a public-voted category recognising family businesses that have made a positive impact on their customers and communities. The award follows the company's success in last year's competition, when it was named national runner-up.

Founded in 2001 by Mick and Anne Elms, the business is now led by the next generation of the family, with Hannah Tilley and Jon Elms serving as directors.

Based in Headcorn, Chartway Janitorial supplies professional cleaning and hygiene products to organisations across Kent and the wider South East. Its customers span a range of sectors, including healthcare, education, hospitality, leisure and industry.

The company provides products such as hand towels, toilet tissue, soaps, cleaning chemicals, sanitising products, disposable gloves and recycling and refuse sacks. It also offers environmentally friendly alternatives to help customers reduce their environmental impact.

Commenting on the award, director Hannah Tilley said the team was delighted to receive the recognition during the company's milestone anniversary year. She thanked customers for their continued support and said building strong relationships and delivering personal service had always been at the heart of the business.

Chartway Janitorial employs seven people and lists organisations including The Aspinall Foundation, the National Trust, NHS Foundation Trusts and South East Coast Ambulance Service among its customers.

The National Family Business of the Year Awards are organised by Family Business United and celebrate the achievements of family-owned businesses from across the UK. This year's awards ceremony was held at the Royal Geographical Society in London, bringing together businesses from a wide range of industries.

Paul Andrews, founder and CEO of Family Business United, said the awards recognise the important contribution family businesses make to the UK economy, local communities and future generations.

More information about Chartway Janitorial is available on the company's website: Chartway Janitorial