Nim’s Fruit Crisps wins SME Innovation of Year award

Nim’s Fruit Crisps achievements were celebrated in front of hundreds of food and drink manufacturing sector guests with the FMEA trophy at a glittering gala ceremony hosted by star TV presenter Carol Smillie earlier this month.

The firm’s ceo Nimisha Raja received the award from category sponsor Sanderson’s sales director Mike Gallagher.

The owner’s massive commitment to making the business succeed impressed the FMEA’s independent judging panel – led by Paul Wilkinson, chair of National Skills Academy for Food and Drink.

Sold the family home​

Owner Raja was so focused on success, she sold the family home to raise money for a new 929m²​ production facility in Kent, equipped with bespoke equipment.

As part of its mission to bring healthy products to the children’s market, Nim’s has moved production of its air dried fruit and vegetable crisps from eastern Europe to the UK.

Nim’s believes that bringing production in-house gives the business control over its products from start to finish.

“This is relatively small-scale firm with big ambitions,”​ said one judge. “It’s good to see a focus on children’s health snacks. Also the owner put their whole heart, soul and life – even selling the family home – to make this business thrive.”​

‘Children’s healthy snacks’​

The business beat three other shortlisted firms to win the trophy. Read the full shortlist in the box below.

This year’s Venice-­themed FMEAs award ceremony celebrated the achievements of winners and finalists​ on the evening of Wednesday, November 2 at The Hilton Park Lane hotel, in London.