The honour follows an impressive 82% employee engagement score in the national WorkL survey—well above the 70% threshold required for recognition. 

The WorkL survey assessed organisations across six key areas: reward and recognition, instilling pride, information sharing, empowerment, wellbeing, and job satisfaction. Nikwax’s strong performance reflects a culture that puts people and values at the heart of the business. 

Founded in 1977, Nikwax transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) in 2022, enshrining its social and environmental ethos into its structure. Every employee, referred to as a ‘Partner’, now shares ownership, a voice in governance, and a stake in the company’s future. 

“We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition,” said Brian Davidson, CEO of Nikwax.  “It is a testament to our Partners, who not only make Nikwax a great place to work, but also drive our shared commitment to making a real difference—socially, environmentally, and ethically.”  

Nikwax’s commitment to doing business differently was also recently recognised at the Insider Made in the South East Awards, where it was named Manufacturer of the Year (under £25m). The judging panel praised the company as “a leader in its field and an example to emulate,” highlighting that “its sustainability ideology was a large part of its success and its efforts to change the world went far beyond the symbolic into the pragmatic.” 

As well as championing ethical business practices, Nikwax provides a comprehensive benefits package, including profit share, paid childcare, enhanced health plans, hybrid working, and generous annual leave. 

With many long-serving Partners Nikwax’s workplace culture is rooted in inclusivity, transparency, and mutual respect.  Sean Carey, who has been with Nikwax for 37 years and is one of the company’s longest-serving employees, reflected on the commendation: “Working at Nikwax has never just been about the job—it’s about being part of something that genuinely cares about people and the planet. Over the decades, I’ve seen the company grow without ever losing its values. Being named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work feels like a well-earned recognition of the culture we’ve all helped build together.”