Neil will be representing Liverpool’s thriving business community alongside an expert panel that includes Octopus Energy CEO Greg Jackson, Donna O’Toole, Breffney Brass, and Tony O’Rahilly, as they assess and recognise businesses making a real impact in the renewable energy sector.

Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Product Officer at Octopus Energy, personally recommended Neil for this role, citing his reputation for business success and industry expertise.

Neil’s brother and business partner, Reg Illingworth, also a Liverpool-based entrepreneur and Director at Machmade Ltd, will join him at the awards to celebrate the achievements of the industry’s top professionals.

A Liverpool Business Legacy of Innovation & Growth

As a Liverpool Chamber Strategic Partner, Neil Illingworth has spent his career driving business growth, innovation, and sustainability. Inspired by his father, Jeff Illingworth, a pioneering Liverpool businessman, Neil and his brothers built a legacy of entrepreneurial excellence spanning multiple industries.

Their journey began with Oliver’s Hot Bread and Coffee Shop, a well-loved franchise in Liverpool, before expanding into retail with Leather Land, operating in both Liverpool and Manchester. The family later moved into the construction sector with Mixa Mate Concrete and established DYNO Rod franchises in Liverpool and Bristol.

A passionate innovator, Neil was instrumental in developing Check Point, the safety wheel nut indicator, now a global standard for vehicle safety. He also co-founded Viva Sanitary, a company that supplies high-quality plumbing solutions across the UK.

Recognising the growing importance of renewable energy, Neil and Reg travelled to Berlin to study Germany’s pioneering approach to green energy before the UK’s major shift toward sustainability and decarbonisation. Their early insights into energy-efficient solutions make Neil an ideal judge for the Octopus Energy Trusted Partners Awards.

His lifelong commitment to business growth, skills development, and sustainability has earned him recognition as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer and a Franchisee of the Year award from the British Franchise Association (BFA).

Octopus Energy: A Billion-Dollar Unicorn Driving the UK’s Green Revolution

Octopus Energy, a billion-dollar “unicorn” company, is leading the way in renewable energy, with a focus on customer-first innovation, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability. With a valuation exceeding $5 billion, Octopus Energy is committed to making solar power and heat pumps accessible and affordable to drive the UK’s transition to low-carbon energy solutions.

The Trusted Partners Awards Night is part of Octopus Energy’s wider mission to recognise and support the businesses working to accelerate the UK’s green energy transition.

Judging Process & Recognition

The judging process will take place between 24th February – 7th March, with winners announced at the awards ceremony in April.

Neil expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating:

“It’s an honour to represent Liverpool and be part of an event that highlights the incredible efforts of businesses leading the way in renewable energy. The transition to sustainable, efficient heating and solar solutions is a crucial step toward a greener future, and I’m looking forward to recognising the companies making this a reality.”

As a Liverpool Chamber Strategic Partner, Neil’s involvement in the Octopus Energy Awards reflects his dedication to driving business excellence, sustainability, and innovation in the Liverpool City Region and beyond.

For media inquiries or interview requests with Neil Illingworth, please contact:
📧 kathrynog@machmade.co.uk
📞 07718269918
The Octopus Energy Trusted Partners Awards Night 2025 | Octopus Energy