Market research company Kokoro won agency of the year at the ceremony at Old Billingsgate in central London ahead of 13 other finalists.

The Research Live Award for best new venture went to LADbible Group, while The Nursery picked up best place to work.

Of the two business impact of the year awards, the global award went to Kantar Consulting & Fáilte Ireland while the UK award was given to Shell and Strat7 Incite.

Kantar won innovation of the year, awarded following a ‘Dragon’s Den’-style pitching process, and in-house team of the year went to Marks & Spencer (Clothing & Home).

Young researcher of the year – client was awarded to Beatriz Molina Sanchez of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, while young researcher of the year – supplier was picked up by Opinium’s Chris Curtis.

In the MRS Awards, with principal sponsor Cint, which were held alongside the Research Live Awards, the President’s Medal went to Iranian research firm GAMAAN.

The newly-created sustainability award went to The Behavioural Architects and New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment, which also picked up the Liz Nelson Grand Prix for Social Impact.

Jane Frost, chief executive at MRS, said: “At a time when it feels that the UK has come out of the frying pan and into the fire, I am immensely proud of the contribution our sector has made over the past three years. While much of the disruption of the pandemic has subsided, the cost-of-living crisis is causing its own stresses on businesses, communities and individuals.

“Now, again, the research sector has a crucial role to play in guiding leaders in the private and public spheres through another difficult period. The calibre of tonight’s finalists shows just how committed our sector is to stepping up to the plate, innovating as technology and behaviours change to deliver actionable insights.”

A full list of MRS Awards 2022 winners can be read here.