15 Jan Indirock WINS Independent Operator of the Year in Prestigious REVO Awards
We are proud to announce that INDIROCK has won the prestigious REVO Award for ‘Independent Operator of the Year’ – a social enterprise and UK leading bouldering gym and coffee shop based at The Victoria Centre.
The REVO Awards are regarded as the hallmark of excellence in the industry, spotlighting those who are driving forward innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Indirock, a family-run, not-for-profit business, has quickly become an integral part of the Southend community so it’s an incredible next step to have been recognised as this year’s ‘Independent Operator of the Year’.
As the largest and newest bouldering gym in Essex, Indirock offers a unique blend of physical activity, community spirit, and support for vulnerable young people, helping them gain valuable employment skills. Since our opening, Indirock has hosted over 70,000 climbs, providing an inclusive and welcoming space for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds—including those with physical disabilities, partial or no sight, learning disabilities, and neurodivergence.
At its core, Indirock was founded with three key objectives:
● To make bouldering as accessible as possible to the people of Southend,
● To contribute to the revitalisation of Southend’s city centre, and
● To support young people in overcoming barriers to employment
The Victoria Centre’s team, led by Dennis Baldry, backed Indirock’s application for the REVO award,
recognising the extraordinary impact the business has had within the Centre and the wider community.
Dennis Baldry, Centre Manager at The Victoria Centre, said:
“Winning a REVO Award is a huge honour for the Centre and most importantly for Indirock. Congratulations to Emily and the entire Indirock team! We are delighted to have such a diverse range of tenants, both national and independent, here at The Victoria Centre. It’s this unique combination that makes shopping centres thrive in today’s world. We look forward to more awards and successes in the future!”
Emily Vermont, our Founder of Indirock, commented:
“We are absolutely thrilled and proud to be recognised as the Independent Operator of the Year by the Revo Awards. This recognition is a testament to the innovative, forward-thinking approach that The Victoria Centre has shown in supporting local, family-run businesses like ours. It’s a privilege to be part of a community that values quality, inclusivity, and a non-profit ethos. We’re excited about the future and grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to the vibrancy of Southend.”
Indirock is Essex’s biggest bouldering wall, offering top quality indoor rock climbing for all ages. We also have a great coffee shop!