Reporter: David Murphy
Date published: 03 September 2026
Second generation helps Oldham family business Ripple reach national awards final
An Oldham business run by a father with all three of his children now involved has reached the final of a national family business award.
Ripple has been shortlisted for Best Family Business at the 2026 National Entrepreneur Awards.
The company designs and creates retail environments for brands and retailers and is led by David Wolfenden.
His children Hannah, Daniel and Matthew Wolfenden are all involved in the business.
Matthew was the first of the second generation to join Ripple and has worked across operational and leadership roles.
Hannah later joined with a focus on people, culture and organisational development, while Daniel joined five years ago and works on business strategy and growth.
Ripple said it has continued to grow through new clients and repeat business and has invested in manufacturing capabilities, processes and technology.
The company has also achieved EcoVadis Platinum status for its sustainability performance and provides work experience placements for local people.
David said: “Being a family business means we take a long-term view in everything we do. We aren’t focused on short-term gains; we’re focused on building a sustainable business that will continue to thrive for future generations.
“It allows us to make decisions based on our values, invest in our people, and build lasting relationships with customers, suppliers, and the local community.
“The family name is attached to everything we do, which creates a real sense of pride, accountability and commitment throughout the business.”
He added: “Having Hannah, Daniel and Matthew all involved in the business makes reaching the final particularly special.
“They’ve each joined at different stages and brought their own skills and ideas to Ripple. Seeing the next generation play such an important role in where the business goes next is something I’m incredibly proud of.
“This recognition belongs to the wider Ripple team too. The growth and progress we’ve made is down to the people across the business who continue to push us forward.”
The National Entrepreneur Awards are run by Entrepreneurs Circle and are in their 14th year.
Entrepreneurs Circle founder Nigel Botterill said: “One of the greatest achievements for any family business is building something that the next generation genuinely wants to be part of and take forward.
“David now has all three of his children involved in Ripple, each bringing different skills and helping to shape the next chapter of the business.”
Winners across 10 categories are due to be announced at the ICC Birmingham on Monday 7 September.