At the 2025 International Confectionery Awards, Carol Oldbury of Hames Chocolates has been named Woman of the Year, recognising her leadership, resilience and lasting contribution to the confectionery industry.
The awards celebrate excellence across the global confectionery sector, spotlighting the individuals and organisations whose vision, expertise and dedication continue to shape the industry’s future.
This year’s Woman of the Year finalists – Carol Oldbury of Hames Chocolates, Fliss Newland of Wild Thingz, Louise Monk of Popcorn Kitchen and Michelle Stapelfeldt of Wallies Lollies – each demonstrated outstanding contributions to business growth, product development and broader industry influence. Together, they reflect the depth and diversity of leadership driving the confectionery community forward.
Following a detailed evaluation process, the judges selected Carol Oldbury as the category winner. Her inspiring combination of resilience, vision and long-term dedication has not only strengthened a family-run confectionery business but ensured its continued evolution and success within a highly competitive market. Judges highlighted her ability to balance tradition with growth as a defining factor in the decision.
With this recognition, Carol Oldbury joins a distinguished group of leaders whose commitment and passion continue to elevate the confectionery sector.
The 2025 International Confectionery Awards continues to celebrate the people, expertise and leadership shaping the future of confectionery.
