Top Ten Kitchen Porters in the UK Revealed — Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Hospitality.

The finalists are out for the 2025 Kitchen Porter of the Year Awards, a national competition run by Winterhalter UK. It shines a well-deserved spotlight on one of the most vital jobs in any professional kitchen.

The story, recently featured in Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier Magazine, highlights an impressive mix of talent from across the UK — from hotels and restaurants to sports venues and contract caterers.

Now in its twelfth year, the competition keeps growing in profile and prestige. The judging panel said this has been the toughest shortlist yet. Entries arrived from every corner of hospitality, and judges praised the passion, skill and pride shown by each nominee.

Their feedback reminds us that behind every smooth service stands a great KP — the person keeping everything clean, organised and on time.

Recognising True Industry Heroes

For many of us in hospitality, the Kitchen Porter is the heartbeat of the operation. They’re the first in, the last out, and the people who keep everything moving when the heat is on. The awards celebrate that professionalism and resilience — from maintaining hygiene standards under pressure to supporting chefs and front-of-house teams during peak service.

Having worked in the industry ourselves, we understand just how important these team members are. A great KP does far more than wash dishes — they set the rhythm of the kitchen, keep morale high, and make sure service never misses a beat. Their contribution can turn a hectic shift into a smooth, well-oiled service, and every chef knows how valuable that is.

This year’s Top Ten KPs include professionals from some of the UK’s most respected venues — hotels, football clubs, restaurants and catering operations known for their excellence. Each nomination came from colleagues and managers who wanted to recognise the reliability, dedication and positive attitude that make these individuals stand out.

About the Competition

The Kitchen Porter of the Year Awards were created to champion people who rarely get the spotlight but whose contribution is indispensable. Each year, hundreds of nominations are reviewed before the final shortlist of ten is chosen. One overall winner will soon be named KP of the Year 2025 and will receive a cash prize, a celebratory meal with family and friends, and the coveted trophy. Every shortlisted KP also receives special recognition gifts to mark their achievement.

As the judges explained, the competition isn’t only about prizes — it’s about respect. It highlights the teamwork, commitment and skill that keep professional kitchens safe, efficient and welcoming for both staff and guests. It also reminds us that true hospitality depends on everyone, not just those on the pass.

Celebrating Pride and Teamwork

Reading through the nominees’ stories, it’s clear that great kitchen porters combine hard work with heart. Their pride, patience and calm under pressure make them essential to every successful kitchen. Many chefs say a brilliant KP can lift the mood of an entire brigade — and these awards are a small but meaningful way to say thank you.

And it’s not just about the glory. The winner receives £1,000 in vouchers, a celebratory meal with friends and family, and that all-important KP of the Year trophy. Their employer also gains a brand-new Winterhalter dishwasher worth up to £10,000 — proof that great teamwork benefits the whole kitchen.

Looking Ahead

The overall winner will be announced in the coming weeks, and we’ll be watching closely to see who takes the title. Whoever wins, the message is clear: hospitality simply couldn’t run without its kitchen porters. Recognising their contribution strengthens the culture of teamwork, respect and pride that defines the very best kitchens.

From all of us at Anglia Catering Equipment — congratulations to every finalist and nominee. 

You can read more about the competition and this year’s finalists at www.kpoftheyear.com.