British start-up Munchy Play has been shortlisted for the coveted ‘Made in the UK’ Award for London and the East of England, in the 2021 Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

The Great British Entrepreneur awards celebrate the best in British talent, and received nearly 5,000 entrants this year.

The awards are split into eight regions, ensuring the very best talent is selected for recognition.

Sophia, founder of Munchy Play, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised by the Great British Entrepreneur Awards in the ‘Made in the UK’ category.

It was a conscious choice to have our kids’ plates made and manufactured in the UK. Today's consumer cares about ethics and values and want to align with brands that share this view. Munchy Play is a small business built on the foundations of high-quality and British enterprise. We know that parents value premium products and the British stamp of approval goes a long way. We proudly carry the UKCA logo on our products too.”

Named the 'most promising start-up of 2021' in the Sunday Times, Munchy Play is the first ever kids' plate featuring a built-in track, available here.

Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James, said: “We have seen some incredible finalists over the years, and this year is no exception. It really is one of the strongest shortlists we’ve ever had, and the fact that so many exceptional people have applied during such a tough year is a testament to the resolve and entrepreneurial talent that exists across the UK.

“As well as the recognition, our finalists and eventual winners will join our fantastic alumni community that supports each other all year round. From networking and thought leadership, right the way through to mentoring and guidance – being a part of our ecosystem of entrepreneurs can be incredibly rewarding. 

“Creating the shortlist out of so many wonderful applications was incredibly tough, so I don’t envy the judges who will now decide the regional winners. Everyone who has been shortlisted should be incredibly proud and we’re thrilled to be able to showcase their achievements.”

Anne Boden MBE, founder of Starling Bank, headline partner for the Awards, said: “The events of the past year have touched everyone, be it through the health of friends and family, the isolation of restrictions or the wider impact on our livelihoods. However, businesses are made of people, and it’s the incredible fortitude, determination and innovation of people like those shortlisted, that has helped our regions survive, and in some cases thrive.

“At Starling, we’re proud to be working with the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and help champion the individuals who will lead the charge and shape our future economy as the nation looks to build back better and stronger.”