Joshua McAleavey-Dunne, a 19-year-old from Lewisham who works for Appleton and Rowlinson Ltd in Penge, won the title in the inaugural competition run by Leyland.
He was surprised with the news while on the job in the workshop, where Leyland CEO Martin Hastings arrived with a gold-plated trophy and the £2,000 prize.
Mr McAleavey-Dunne said: “I was in the workshop just cleaning some shelves ready to polish to be sent out.
“The next thing I knew there were camera crews and Leyland representatives walking through the door telling me I had won the competition.
“It’s a fantastic honour to be Leyland’s first ever Apprentice of the Year.
“I was given an opportunity by Appleton and Rowlinson Ltd and have just been trying to take it all in and learn as much as I can.
“I certainly never expected an award like this.
“It’s a tremendous start to my career.
“I’m really looking forward to visiting my local Leyland and choosing some new tools and materials.”
Mr McAleavey-Dunne has been with Appleton and Rowlinson Ltd for three years, combining his job with studies at London South East Colleges’ Bromley campus.
He was nominated by business owner Terry Rising, who praised the apprentice’s work ethic and attention to detail.
Mr Rising said: “Joshua is the ideal recipient of this brilliant new award.
“Right from day one he has worked hard, has been diligent and has demonstrated excellent time keeping.
“He gives his all to every job and focusses on the minor details that make businesses like ours thrive.”
Appleton and Rowlinson Ltd, based in Penge, has specialised in bespoke furniture and joinery for more than 50 years.
The company handles a wide range of projects, including kitchens, bedrooms, windows, extensions, staircases, and bookcases.
The Apprentice of the Year competition was launched by Leyland to recognise emerging talent in the trades.
Business owners across London were invited to nominate apprentices, highlighting what made them stand out.
Martin Hastings, CEO of Leyland, said: “We launched Apprentice of the Year for the first time to acknowledge the talent emerging in the industry.
“We received some fantastic nominations but it was obvious to us that Joshua was the stand-out winner due to his commitment and desire to go the extra mile for customers.
“With stores right across London, we are committed to playing a role in local communities and this is another example of that.”
The £2,000 prize can be spent at any of Leyland’s 35 decorating and DIY stores across the capital.
The company stocks thousands of products, from paint and building materials to electrical fittings, plumbing equipment, and tools.
Major brands available at Leyland include Dulux, Johnstone’s, Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Paint & Paper Library, CT1, Bosch, Purdy, Stanley, Ronseal, and DEWALT.
Mr McAleavey-Dunne is now looking forward to using his prize to invest in new tools and materials as he continues to build his career.
