Women-only gym Stronger Together in Stansted wins Uttlesford Business Award for Health, Beauty and Wellbeing
A women-only gym in Stansted founded by two former Herts and Essex High School students triumphed at the Uttlesford Business Awards.
Stronger Together Gym, at Unit 1 in Hornbeam Way, was opened three years ago by Sarah Tann and Victoria Kemp, who have been friends for almost three decades.
And they celebrated their business’ recent third anniversary by landing the Health, Beauty and Wellbeing title at an awards ceremony which took place at Saffron Hall in Saffron Walden on February 27.
The judges said: “We would like to recognise the shared passion of the two owners in wanting to help as many women as possible to feel their best.
“They have created a safe and supportive environment for women of all ages, shapes, sizes, fitness levels and abilities and from all walks of life to be able to take a little time for themselves to invest in their health.”
Tann, 40, is mum to three boys and lives in Takeley. She got a PE and sports science degree at the University of Chester and is currently director of sport at a local prep school. Her brother Tom Coleman is director of rugby at Bishop’s Stortford rugby club and mum Sally runs shoe shop Le Donne II in Bridge Street.
Kemp, 41, has two girls and lives in Stansted. She has a business and fashion management degree from Loughborough University and was previously a fashion buyer and crossfit coach. She plays netball in a Bishop’s Stortford league.
The pre- and post-natal specialists were inspired to launch their own business in February 2022 after being frustrated by the lack of knowledge and support they experienced post children on their return-to-exercise journeys.
Over the last three years they have added specific programmes for pre- and post-natal, menopause and a teen girl class. The friends also offer personal training, yoga and Pilates.
The Uttlesford Business Awards were organised by Uttlesford District Council in association with Manchester Airports Group.
The other winners were: Best for Innovation – Saffron Screen; Rising Star – Art Beats; Young Entrepreneur – Lois Williamson, Si Belle Beauty; Creative Champion – Effy the Artist; Commitment to Community – Saffron Building Society; Environmental Impact – Neon Leo; Support Local – Hello Food Tours; Food & Drink Producer – Meadow Oak Distillery; Retailer of the Year – Vintage Style Living; Leisure & Hospitality – Saffron Hall; Dedication & Service – The Orchid Practice; Uttlesford Business of the Year – Chater’s; People’s Choice - Saffron Hall Trust.
Alongside their trophy, the winners were presented with a bottle of Saffron Grange sparkling wine and an invitation for a tour of Stansted Airport.
Cllr Neil Hargreaves, portfolio holder for finance and local economy, said: “These awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognise the innovation and excellence of local businesses and the value they bring to our communities. They go a long way to making our district such a great place to live, work and visit.
“Congratulations to all our winners and the nominees. It was an inspirational evening and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
Other event sponsors included Ambitious Essex, Backing Essex Businesses, North Essex Economic Board, NWES, Saffron Business Solutions and Visit Essex.
