Posted on 19th May 2025
by Jacqui Vear
We’ve always loved being part of awards – not just for the potential accolades, but for the benchmarking, inspiration, and connections they bring. They remind us that we’re part of a dynamic, progressive business community.
Of course, becoming a finalist is always a relative decision, and the competition is fierce – both within our industry and the wider business community. We’ve often found ourselves the ‘bridesmaid, not the bride’, which made us reflect on whether quietly, consistently, and competently moving forward, always aiming to do the right thing, is the best strategy for building a trophy shelf.
But 2025 is a milestone year for us. We’re celebrating 50 years of Systematic and 25 years of our design services, now known as oodle. That prompted a moment of reflection – on our journey, our agility, and how much the world, (and our work) has changed. Sharing our story reminded us of the incredible commitment from so many people, some of whom are so sadly no longer with us, who’ve made it their mission to keep our offer one step ahead, always focused on our clients’ success.
So, with some golden confidence around the business, we submitted our application to the HETA Green Sustainability Award category within the Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards 2025. It’s a forum organised by Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce, with the support of headline sponsor Phillips 66. The judges wanted to hear how applicants are “working towards sustainable development goals, ultimately creating a better world” and we felt that we had lots of say.
#NLBA25 culminated on 15th May 2025 with songs and successes at Scunthorpe’s Baths Hall.
After being entertained by local students at Grimsby Institute and North Lindsey College, and the cast of Mamma Mia from West End theatres, we heard the news we didn’t dare dream of.
There was a touch of destiny in the air. Systematic began trading in April 1975 – the same month ABBA released their iconic album ABBA, featuring Mamma Mia. It really did feel like the stars (and sequins) were aligned.
The award, supported by HETA – a respected local engineering training provider – highlights the importance of sustainability for all businesses, of every size and sector. As an SME operating outside the traditional ‘green’ space, we take a pragmatic, purpose-driven approach: small actions can create big ripples. It’s not always about headline-grabbing innovation – often it’s about long-term commitment, sharp focus and good old-fashioned hard work.
Just as we were catching our breath, another surprise came our way – the Forrester Boyd Business Excellence Award.
This was the evening’s pinnacle – “recognition of a business that demonstrates exceptional performance across the board: profitability, adaptability, management, and sustainability.” We hadn’t even considered we’d be in the running… so to win was an unbelievable honour.
This one’s for our team. As we said in our application, “our people are our greatest differentiator.” They give their all every day – and as the photos from the night show, they also glammed up beautifully for the occasion!
This incredible night wasn’t just a celebration of where we’ve been – it’s a launchpad for where we’re going.
We’re more committed than ever to innovation, sustainability and supporting our clients, our people, and our community.
These awards are a proud moment in our history – and a powerful reminder that the legacy of Systematic is still being written, with energy, vision, and heart.
