Lesley Beach, Group Managing Director of Grimsby-based baby and children’s swim brand Splash About, has been named Yorkshire Businesswoman of the Year 2026.
The award recognises outstanding female leaders who demonstrate exceptional entrepreneurship, innovation and economic impact across the Yorkshire region. Beach’s vision, resilience and leadership have positioned Splash About as a global authority in early-years swim development while maintaining strong investment in local talent, distribution and logistics operations.
In 2025, Beach also led the acquisition and turnaround of Bambino Mio.
She returned the sustainable nappy brand to profitability within eight months of purchasing it from administration. Her strategic direction and commercial acumen have resulted in a refreshed brand identity, which is not just aesthetic; the focus is significantly on technical improvement, positioning the products as the best in class to support babies and toddlers throughout their nappy journey and to strengthen the brand’s position on reusables.
Beach has also driven Splash About to set the standard for innovation in baby swimwear, earning global recognition as the leading brand for reusable swim nappies, whose ergonomic design has become the go-to choice for baby swim schools across the world.
Furthermore, she has pioneered innovative commercial models beyond traditional retail. Splash About now supplies 85% of UK holiday park operators, including Haven, Center Parcs and Butlins, helping to transform poolside retail spaces from cost centres into profitable revenue streams.
Beach comments on accepting this award.
“This recognition is incredibly special, because it reflects the hard work, commitment and belief of everybody working across the Splash About and Bambino Mio brands. From designing and packing, to shipping and customer support, every member of the team plays a vital role that has transformed Splash About from a brand that started life at the kitchen table into a global authority.
“Thinking globally, while remaining firmly committed to investing in the local economy, has always been important to me. Innovation, purpose, adaptability and a customer-centric, service-led approach have provided the foundation for our growth and will continue to drive us forward in 2026 and beyond.”
This year’s awards coincided with International Women’s Day and attracted more than 170 nominations. The Leeds Marriott Hotel hosted the awards ceremony, with a judging panel including Sir Rodney Walker, Sharon Jandu OBE and Abigail Marshall-Katung, among other prominent business and civic leaders.
For further information and wholesale enquiries, contact info@splashabout.com.