Avani Solutions’ Co-Founder Amanda Thomson Named ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ at Licensed Trade Charity Awards

Amanda Thomson, Co-Founder of Avani Solutions, has been named ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ at the 2025 Licensed Trade Charity Awards. Amanda was honoured for her outstanding dedication and unwavering support of the charity, which provides vital financial assistance, practical help and emotional support to individuals across the hospitality sector, including pub owners, bar staff and chefs, who may be facing illness, hardship or personal challenges.

The charity plays a crucial role in improving the wellbeing of workers in the licensed trade by offering grants, mental health support and expert advice for those in need. It also works to raise awareness of the many pressures facing hospitality workers, advocating for better working conditions across the industry. In a sector that has faced unprecedented challenges over recent years, from staffing shortages to economic uncertainty, the support LTC provides has never been more important.

Amanda has been a driving force behind Avani Solutions’ partnership with LTC, embedding the charity into the very culture of the company. Under her leadership, LTC has become a core pillar of Avani’s CSR strategy, ensuring that every member of the team understands and embraces the charity’s mission. She has inspired colleagues to see LTC not just as a charity to support, but as a lifeline for people across the industry, giving hope and practical help when it is needed most.

This year, Amanda has led by example through a series of extraordinary fundraising efforts. In spring, she took part in Hospitality Rides 2025, cycling 400km across Taiwan to help raise a collective £441,000 for LTC and Only A Pavement Away. She also joined the Pedalling to Pubs challenge, cycling 220km through the Lake District and contributing to a further £108,000 raised. Beyond her personal achievements, Amanda has inspired teams across Avani to get involved, including encouraging a group of technicians to compete in Endure24, the North’s largest 24-hour trail race, proudly representing LTC.

Amanda’s commitment extends far beyond fundraising events. From speaking at Avani’s annual conference to regularly promoting LTC’s wellbeing services, she ensures the charity remains a visible and accessible “supporting handrail” for her colleagues, demonstrating how businesses can embed support for wellbeing into everyday culture.

Speaking about the award, Amanda said: “I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition. The Licensed Trade Charity does incredible work to support people in our industry, and I’m proud to be part of that mission. None of this would be possible without the amazing support of the Avani team, this award is for all of us.”

The Licensed Trade Charity Awards celebrate individuals and organisations making a meaningful difference across the hospitality sector. Amanda’s win is a testament to the power of leadership, community and sustained commitment to giving back, particularly in an industry that faces ongoing challenges and relies on charities like LTC to support its people.