The company is named after the founder and current Chairman Edward Elgar[2] who moved to Gloucestershire to start the business in 1986, from the study of the family home in Middleton.

[9] The judges commented that the publisher cemented its reputation for excellent care of staff, authors and customers alike... “Edward Elgar combines longevity with constant innovation: they never rest on what they have achieved and always strive to stay the best in their field.

[10] As a "resolutely forward-looking business", expanding into law publishing and building digital platform Elgaronline, the judges praised EEP for "punching way above its weight despite competition from far larger operators".

"It is a very well run and profitable company with excellent partnerships, great author care and consistently superb customer service."

[12] The judges cited the "excellent site design and back-end technology" and also applauded the way it provided free content to libraries in poorer countries: "That is sensible, creditable and important.

The Bookseller noted the publisher's "renowned author care and entrepreneurial approach", while the IPG reported that "Edward Elgar is incredibly professional, responsive and imaginative.

At that time the award was given for "achieving record sales in a tough market, launching digital platform Elgaronline and for its "high-class editorial, design and production".