Dear Friends,

I have some exciting news to share with you today.

Sweet Cherry won Small Press of the Year at The British Book Awards 2021!

Leicester children’s publisher Sweet Cherry has been announced as winner of the third annual Small Press of the Year Award during the 2021 British Book Awards digital ceremony on the 13th of May. The award is sponsored by CPI Books.

Previously announced in March as regional winners for the Midlands, Sweet Cherry were awarded the overall prize in acknowledgement of its year of record sales as well as for its commitment to children’s reading through its blend of education and entertainment.

Sales for the press topped £1m for the first time, due in part to the appeal of its books to home-learning children and parents. Exports more than doubled as it pushed into new territories, and its brand licensing programme gathered pace. A range of standout books included children’s TV brands such as Numberblocks and Alphablocks, a new fiction series from Angie Lake, and easy-to-read versions of Sherlock Holmes stories that have been very popular in Asia.

Philip Jones, chair of the judges and editor of The Bookseller, said:

“In a tough year for Small Presses, Sweet Cherry stood tall growing its business internationally and at home, and making a difference within its community. What most impressed about Sweet Cherry was that it had everything in place before the pandemic to thrive, and was able to continue with its growth strategy despite the lockdowns. It’s a hardy business, doing its business within its niche and beyond. Our congratulations to Sweet Cherry and its counterparts on the shortlist this year.”

Cecilia Bennett, Managing Editor of Sweet Cherry said:

“It’s amazing to win this category. We’ve been nominated before, and I think we’ve been aware of how many other small presses there are doing amazing things. It comes at a nice moment for us, as we are just coming up to 10 years of Sweet Cherry, and this is something that could not have happened without the support of every single one of my colleagues. Everyone has come together to make this happen, and we’re all really happy.”

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all for your continued support.