Sports memorabilia specialist Memento Exclusives has been named Big Business of the Year 2024 by All Things Business, in recognition of its rapid growth and innovative approach to licensed sports collectibles. The prestigious honour was announced at a ceremony at Northampton’s County Ground, where Memento CEO Barry Gough was also shortlisted for Business Person of the Year.
Founded in motorsport and now a global leader in sports memorabilia, Memento Exclusives has gained international recognition for its partnerships with top-tier sporting organisations. The company provides fans worldwide with unique, officially licensed memorabilia and immersive sports collectibles. Its platforms, including F1 Authentics, MotoGP Authentics, and UFC Collectibles, feature exclusive items ranging from autographed photos and re-engineered memorabilia to high-end show cars and motion simulators, all sourced directly from elite sporting events.
The award celebrates Memento’s remarkable expansion over recent years, during which the business has grown from 15 employees to over 100. This expansion, fuelled by its commitment to connecting fans with meaningful sports experiences, was praised by a panel of judges led by The Apprentice star Nick Hewer. They highlighted the company’s impact on the local economy in Northamptonshire as well as its international success.
CEO Barry Gough expressed his pride in the company’s achievements, particularly its representation of Northamptonshire on the world stage. “This award marks an important milestone on our journey,” he said. “We’re committed to finding new ways to bring fans closer to the sports they love, and Northamptonshire’s rich sporting and business heritage has been an integral part of our story. This recognition is a testament to our hardworking team, whose dedication drives our growth and success.”
Founded on the concept of allowing fans to “Own the Moment,” Memento Exclusives offers a wide range of products that provide enthusiasts with personal connections to their favourite sports. Its business model supports rights holders, athletes, sponsors, and teams through various channels, from white-label e-commerce and digital auctions to e-gifting solutions and physical retail outlets.
The company’s flagship platforms, including F1 Authentics, have cemented Memento’s reputation among motorsport and combat sports fans for delivering one-of-a-kind collectibles, including race-worn attire, authentic car parts, and other highly sought-after items. This multi-channel approach has seen the company become a key player in the global memorabilia market.
Now in its seventh year, the All Things Business Excellence Awards celebrate the accomplishments of businesses across the region. Memento’s recognition as Big Business of the Year underscores its standing in both the local and international business communities. The event, hosted by comedian and Taskmaster presenter Alex Horne, brought together business leaders from various sectors to acknowledge achievements in innovation, growth, and community impact.
In addition to its influence in the sports memorabilia market, Memento Exclusives has actively contributed to job creation in Northamptonshire, helping bolster the local economy as it continues to scale. The award reinforces the company’s commitment to expanding its reach while staying connected to its regional roots.
As Memento Exclusives looks toward future growth, its dedication to connecting fans with the thrill of sporting history remains at the core of its mission, solidifying its reputation as a trusted name in the memorabilia industry.