An Amersham-based miniature pig attraction has scooped a major prize at the Great British Business and Community Awards.
Kew Little Pigs, the ethical farm attraction, was named winner in the Leisure and Tourism category at the glittering ceremony, held at the Crowne Plaza in Marlow on September 26. Owner Olivia Mikhail also took home the runner-up spot in the hotly contested Female Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Founded by Olivia in 2010 from her back garden, Kew Little Pigs has grown into one of Buckinghamshire’s best-loved visitor attractions. The farm is now ranked among the top 10 per cent of animal attractions worldwide on TripAdvisor.
But at the heart of the business is its ethical ethos. Every pig born on the farm goes on to live a happy life as a beloved pet.
Prospective owners must complete a comprehensive pig-keeping course and prove they have the space and facilities before rehoming one of the animals.
Olivia said: “When I started this business 14 years ago, I never dreamed it would grow the way it has. To be recognised at a national level is a huge honour, but what makes me proudest is that every pig in our care finds a loving home. Our aim has always been to educate people about these intelligent, affectionate animals while giving families a memorable day out.”
The awards, launched in 2018, celebrate the outstanding achievements, resilience and innovation of businesses, entrepreneurs, charities and community leaders across the UK. They are produced by Great British Expos Ltd, which has run SME-focused events for more than 13 years, welcoming over 70,000 attendees and raising more than £500,000 for good causes.
For Kew Little Pigs, the double success marks another milestone in a remarkable journey, one that started with a handful of piglets in a suburban garden, and has grown into an international success story rooted firmly in animal welfare.
“I joined the team in September of 2021 as a Farm Hand. This was my first proper job and the experience was very insightful as working with animals there is never a dull moment. I have always loved animals and have had many different animals growing up such as guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs and horses so I knew the animal industry was a career I would like to be involved in. Since joining Kew Little Pigs Farm I have had the opportunity to care for the animals and share my knowledge with all the customers that have visited the farm. I was promoted to Head Farm Hand in January 2023.
I look forward to my journey here at Kew Little Pigs Farm and hope to see you on the farm soon!”
