Recognising outstanding business
Almost 200 guests flocked to the Stirling Court Hotel last week for a glittering ceremony and black-tie gala dinner to celebrate the wide range of organisations that were successful in the inaugural Stirling Business Excellence Awards.
Businesses across Stirling and the surrounding area were recognised in the new awards from The Scotsman with headline sponsor Invest in Stirling, and in association with STEP.
The awards were designed to recognise the very best in the Stirling region, including a cross section of businesses, and highlighting the vital role they play in the economic growth of the area.
As well as Invest in Stirling and STEP, other sponsors and partners included the University of Stirling, Graham & Sibbald, LOC Hire, ECO Hire, Techscaler and Kings Park Hospital.
On the night, The Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum was named Business of the Year, a category sponsored by Invest in Stirling.
Established in 2005 by Sarah Heward from a former derelict Little Chef on the A82 and West
Highland Way, this business is now an iconic roadside diner. It is co-owned and managed by Sarah with her husband, Alan Mccolm, ably supported by their excellent team.
Winners were also unveiled in 13 other categories.
Jim Killough, commercial director at The Scotsman, said: “It was wonderful to see such a wide range of businesses of all sizes being celebrated at our inaugural Stirling Business Awards. There was a real buzz in the room during the awards ceremony, which provided an excellent networking opportunity.
“I’d like to congratulate all the businesses whose success was marked on the night and hope they continue to go from strength to strength.
“I’d also like to thank all our sponsors and supporters, including our headline sponsor, Invest in Stirling.”
Stirling Council leader Councillor Chris Kane, added: “The inaugural Stirling Business Excellence Awards was an inspiring event that showcased the drive, ambition and creativity of our exceptional entrepreneurs, as well as reaffirming our reputation as a centre of business and innovation excellence. Congratulations to all the winners and to all those shortlisted.
“The event highlighted Stirling’s strong trackrecord of effective collaboration between the public, private and third sectors, creating a vibrant and enterprising business environment where our economy, businesses and communities flourish.”
He continued: “Our people are at the very heart of our inclusive economic growth ambitions, and it was fantastic to celebrate the stories, and achievements of our diverse and dynamic business community.
“Stirling celebrates its 900th anniversary this year and – thanks to our thriving businesses, creative collaborations and talented people – we are well positioned to unleash our full economic potential in the years ahead.”
It was fantastic to celebrate the achievements of our diverse and dynamic business community