Well-Known Businessman Wins City’s Top Award

One of Lincoln’s best-known businessmen and his far-reaching company are about to be presented with Lincoln’s top honour.

Nick Peel, the owner of Stokes of Lincoln, has been named as this year’s winner of the prestigious Lincoln Civic Award and he and his company will be celebrated at a special ceremony in the city’s historic Guildhall on Thursday. (April 24)

Lincoln Civic Award Trustees’ Chairman Henry Ruddock said: “This year we received an amazing variety of nominations for this important award. It was great to be able to tell Nick that we actually received separate nominations for both him and his company.

“He was absolutely delighted when we told him that, together, they stood out as our 2025 winner.”

Stokes is a family business and its history stretches back to 1902. Many people will be familiar with its cafes, especially those on High Bridge in the city centre and at The Lawn complex.

The company also has a stall in Lincoln’s recently relaunched indoor market.

Nick was behind the regeneration of The Lawn complex in uphill Lincoln, where the company has its roastery.

An important city employer, today’s company includes a commercial wholesale business and a Barista Training Academy.

The City of Lincoln Council’s Civic & International Partnerships’ Manager Kate Fenn said:

“Our Civic Award presentation night is always a very special occasion and we look forward to welcoming Nick and hearing more about his business.”

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