Ideal Extraction named as finalist in prestigious business awards

Tuesday, 14 October 2025 16:36

L-R Steve Rhodes, Helen Rhodes, Felicity Rhodes (Photo: Heidi Marfitt)

Ideal Extraction Ltd in Ilkley has been announced as a finalist in the category ‘Builders of Tomorrow - Construction, Property and Engineering’ at the prestigious Yorkshire & Humberside Family Business Awards 2025.

Based in Ilkley, Ideal Extraction is a specialist engineering company providing bespoke dust and fume extraction systems, primarily in the woodworking sector. The company also offers ongoing maintenance and testing services to help clients remain compliant with health and safety legislation.

A family-run business, Ideal Extraction was established by husband and wife team Steve and Helen Rhodes in 2020. Their daughter, Felicity Rhodes, plays a key role in the company as an Assistant Contracts Engineer.

The awards, which are organised by The Family Business Community, highlight businesses that demonstrate strong values, innovation and commitment to their people and communities, recognising the passion, resilience and legacy that family businesses bring to the region.

Helen Rhodes is thrilled with the news that the company is a finalist and said:

"We are proud to be a thriving family business operating in a niche sector of engineering and are delighted with our daughter’s decision to become a key part of our team. Her dedication and drive reflect the values at the heart of our business and signal a bright future for our next generation of leadership.

“These awards, because they are organised by the Family Business Community, resonate deeply with us, as community is a key part of our ethos. From supporting local initiatives to fostering a workplace culture where every team member feels valued, we believe that business and community should grow together. We’re looking forward to celebrating with all the finalists at the Royal Armouries on 21st November.”

The awards will be hosted by Dave Clarkson and Sue Howorth of The Family Business Community, alongside renowned food and drink writer and presenter, Nigel Barden.

Co-founder and Director of The Family Business Community, Sue Howorth, commented:

“The competition was fierce this year, with a record number of family businesses from across the region entering the awards. The quality of this year’s entries made the judges’ decisions extremely challenging and the finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements. We’re looking forward to celebrating with all the family businesses in our region."

Dave Clarkson, co-director, added:

“We are thrilled by the level of commitment and attention to detail shown by all the applicants. The strength and diversity of the entries have truly impressed us."

Finalists will soon receive a visit from a specially selected panel of judges, who will assess the businesses before making their final decisions.

Ben Vickers of Western Pensions Solutions, part of the Vestey Family, is one of the judges this year and shared his thoughts:

“The calibre of applications has been outstanding, and it’s clear that family businesses in our region are both proud and forward-thinking. Many of the entries showcased a progressive mindset.”

The winners will be announced at an awards celebration at the Royal Armouries in Leeds on Friday 21st November.

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