"Andrew exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Unsung Hero Award: dedication, innovation, and humility. He does not seek recognition, yet his work underpins Huhtamaki’s ability to deliver packaging solutions that are both functional and future-ready. His technical leadership and collaborative spirit make him an invaluable asset to the organisation and the wider foodservice packaging industry"
‘’Dan exemplifies integrity, humility, and professionalism. He leads through service rather than status and is motivated by doing the right thing rather than seeking recognition. His contributions are significant, meaningful, and often overlooked - precisely what makes him a deserving recipient of the FPA Unsung Hero Award. Dan’s impact is felt most strongly by the people around him. He supports teams with calm leadership, integrity, and genuine care, ensuring operations run reliably for customers nationwide. Much of his work goes unseen, but it underpins UK hospitality, and, on a lighter note, his hip-hop dancing is second to none.”
"Darren is the heartbeat of St Helens. Over 24 years, he has risen from packer to Site Manager, guiding the team through transformative change with humility and vision. His leadership secured the site’s future, drove sustainability, and empowered people - all without seeking recognition. Darren truly embodies the Unsung Hero spirit."
"Ella’s contribution is marked by integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to collective success. She is a trusted colleague, a calm problem-solver, and a driving force behind the scenes. For these reasons, she is a truly deserving recipient of the Unsung Hero Award."
"Hayley Dorney’s dedication, impact, professionalism, and humility make her a deserving nominee for the FPA Unsung Hero Award. Her work on the Whitbread mobilisation and other projects has been
transformative, ensuring operational success and strengthening the organisation from within. While she may not seek recognition, her contributions are indispensable. Honouring Hayley with this award would rightly acknowledge the quiet excellence that defines her career."
"For decades, Joy French has been the unwavering heartbeat of excellence, proving that true dedication stands the test of time. Through countless changes in technology, trends, and expectations, they have remained a constant source of wisdom, empathy, and leadership. Their commitment isn’t just measured in years it’s reflected in the trust they’ve built, the teams they’ve inspired, and the customers whose lives they’ve touched. This length of time in the same role is more than a career; it’s a legacy of resilience, adaptability, and passion for serving others. They remind us that greatness is making a difference, day after day, year after year. A true unsung hero and industry legend!"
"Kate is an exceptional member of the business whose dedication, expertise and positive attitude consistently shine behind the scenes. Her deep product and process knowledge make her a trusted point of contact across the organisation, and she has supported countless account managers with unwavering reliability. Every task she handles is completed with care, accuracy and professionalism, making her an indispensable part of our success. Kate truly embodies the spirit of an Unsung Hero. She works quietly but impactfully, always stepping in where she is needed. Her contributions may happen out of the spotlight, but her impact is felt every day."
"Katrina consistently goes above and beyond her responsibilities, offering support, guidance, andexcellent leadership to colleagues across the organisation. She is also passionate about personal development, helping not only her own team grow and flourish, but being a role model and mentor toothers in the business. She is known for her integrity, strategic mindset, professionalism and incredibly collaborative approach, always prioritising what is best for the team and Xampla’s mission. Katrina is incredibly committed and flexible, and will never let anyone down, even on her day’s off. Her positive attitude and quiet determination make her a trusted role model and a stabilising force within the business. Her contributions are often behind the scenes, yet they are essential to Xampla’s growth, reputation, and influence. Her dedication, impact, and selfless approach make her exceptionally worthy of recognition as an Unsung Hero for 2026."
"Matt Standen has been in the packaging industry for 14 years, and arguably one of its best kept secrets. Starting his career at VaioPak in 2012 and now Head of Commercial at Zeus Food, Matt is the definition of an Unsung Hero, dedication, humility and behind-the-scenes influence quietly strengthen an entire organisation. Matt’s contribution is consistent, impactful and often invisible, outside the immediate team. Yet he is the glue that holds many areas of Zeus Food together."