THERE is still time to enter one of the most prestigious award schemes for the family business sector in Scotland.
The deadline for The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2017, held in association with Business Gateway, falls at the close of business tomorrow. It means it is not too late to join a celebration highlighting the rich contribution family firms make to the Scottish economy. There are 11 contested categories this year, with awards dedicated to areas such as innovation, exports, environmental sustainability and community engagement. The awards are supported by Business Gateway, Burness Paull, Clydesdale Bank, Campbell Dallas, Craig Corporate, TL Dallas, Strathclyde Business School, The Kinnell Group and City Gate Construction.
Hugh Lightbody, chief officer at Business Gateway National Unit, said: “Being recognised for hard work and the success you achieve is very important for both your business and your staff. I’d encourage every family business still considering submitting an entry to go for it.”
Bernard Dunn, managing director of TL Dallas said: “There is still time for family businesses to enter the Awards for 2017 – it doesn’t have to be a hugely time-consuming process, as it’s about highlighting the key points on where the business has come from, where it’s going and what are the things that make your business different.”
Peter Dawson, founder of The Kinnell Group’ said: “All Scottish family businesses should consider entry. It can provide recognition for your hard work, differentiate you from your competitors, and provide an independent seal of approval and quality. If you’re a finalist the excitement of the awards ceremony is electric, and not to be missed! “
Brian Colquhoun, UK Head of Commercial Banking, Clydesdale Bank said “We have many long standing relationships with family businesses across the country and understand the hard work and talent required to build a successful business. The Awards provide a platform to highlight these businesses, and with the deadline fast approaching, we would urge all family firms, whatever their size or sector, to enter.
Leo Reilly, managing director of City Gate Construction said: “As the deadline for entries approaches, we are looking for the business that demonstrates exceptional willingness to go the extra mile for others.”
Andy Ritchie, head of rural at Campbell Dallas, said: “We are looking for businesses who can demonstrate business growth and success through either new opportunities, focusing on key strategic objectives, overcoming challenges or developing through innovation and technology.”
Grant Stevenson, Partner, Burness Paull said: “As we get close to the deadline for entries, I would really encourage any family business who may be considering entering to do so. Family businesses are to be celebrated for the role they play in the economy and in putting Scotland on the global stage, and we should take this opportunity to showcase as many of them as possible.”
John Anderson, director of Strathclyde Business School said: “Recent research has shown that the top 100 family businesses in Scotland employ over 103,000 – clearly demonstrating the importance of this part of the economy.”
To enter visit www.newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/familybusiness/, or call Heather Steven on 0141 302 6018 for more information.