Chaudhry has been awarded an MBE for his services to business and to the community in Bradford, having demonstrated ‘that the process of building and developing a viable commercial enterprise can be done with hard work and determination’.
The Rt. Hon. Baroness Warsi described Chaudhry as a role model to many other business leaders and a renowned philanthropist well known across Bradford and Yorkshire.
Commenting on being nominated for this prestigious award, Chaudhry said: “When I started in business over twenty years ago, nothing would have prepared me for the journey I have been on, both in business and in life. The community in where I live and where I have built my business is everything to me and I am humbled to be a part of it.”
“Whilst I feel it is my duty to give back, I feel truly honoured to have received such recognition. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for my family, I would personally like to thank my parents for their prayers and blessings and for the guidance they have given me in life. A heartfelt thanks also goes to my wife, children, and brothers for the support they continue to give.”
Iceland Foods
Choudhry was joined by Iceland Foods chief executive Tarsem Dhaliwal on this year’s list, recognised for his services to the Welsh economy, retail and charity.
Dhaliwal, said: “I’m truly honoured to have been recognised in the New Year Honours List For services to the Welsh economy, retail and charity.
“This is also a recognition of the hard work and dedication of all our colleagues at Iceland Foods and The Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation, whose tireless commitment to support people through our stores and fundraising never ceases to amaze me. I’ll be proud to accept this recognition to honour their work.”
Duncan Farrington, farmer and founder of Farrington Oils, has been awarded an MBE for services to agriculture and the food and drink industry in the King’s New Year Honours List.
The Cabinet Office praised Farrington as a “prominent voice in the promotion of regenerative farming techniques” and a “role model to other farmers across the UK”.
Several members of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) were also recognised on this year’s list, including director, UK co-ordinating body Michael Vaughan Cooper, CB permanent secretary Tamara Margaret Finkelstein and nature lead of the Defra Council for Sustainable Business Justin Mark Francis.
King’s honours
Food Standards Agency (FSA) principal toxicologist Dr David Michael Gott and director of global affairs Steven John Wearne were also honoured by the king this year.
Food charity Dom’s Food Mission secured a double win, with co-founders Alexandria and Dominic Warren both awarded an OBE for services to the eradication of food waste and poverty.
Meanwhile, the best of the best of the food and drink manufacturing industry will be descending on the London Hilton Bankside next month for the Food Manufacture Excellence Awards 2025.
The Awards are a great chance to keep up to date with trends, connect with influencers, reward and motivate your teams, raise your company’s profile and celebrate partnership success. All tickets include (available to purchase here):
- Three-course dinner and drinks reception on arrival
- Awards ceremony hosted by celebrity talent
- After party, featuring music, dancing and entertainment
