FAMILY firms of all sizes around Scotland are in the spotlight once again as The Herald celebrates one of the most important sectors of the Scottish economy.

Entries are coming in thick and fast for the seventh Herald Scottish Family Business Awards, held in Association with Business Gateway.

There are eleven categories to enter this year, as the competition looks to recognise excellence on a broad range of fronts, from rural family firms and companies providing great customer service to those displaying international growth and business innovation.

The categories are sponsored by Business Gateway, Burness Paull, Clydesdale Bank, Campbell Dallas, Craig Corporate, TL Dallas, Western Pension Solutions and Strathclyde Business School.

Hugh Lightbody, chief officer at the Business Gateway National Unit, said: “Business Gateway works with many fast-growing companies every year all over Scotland and, as well as being the event’s title sponsor, is delighted to be sponsor of the Fastest Growing Family Business Award again this year.

“Last year’s winner of this award, Wholesale Domestic, is an exciting business and was a worthy recipient of the accolade. This year’s entrants will be every bit as impressive.”

Brian Colquhoun of Clydesdale Bank said: “The dedication and passion of family-run businesses in Scotland must be celebrated so we are thrilled to support The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards. The deadline for entries is fast approaching and we would encourage any business, of any size, to get involved and submit an entry.”

John Anderson, director of Strathclyde Business School, said: “Strathclyde Business School is delighted to sponsor the Outstanding Contribution award which seeks to recognise the long term impact of exceptional family businesses in Scotland which have continued to innovate and create employment and prosperity for communities in Scotland”.

Bernard Dunn of TL Dallas noted: “We are really excited about this year’s family business awards. Each year, we see new companies taking part in the awards experience, from such a wide range of business sectors, and across the length and breadth of Scotland.

“Family businesses are the bedrock of the Scottish economy, and we need to highlight and celebrate the contribution that they make to our communities.

“My key message to family companies is get involved. It’s a hugely positive experience, not simply in terms of profile for your business, but also for the networking with like-minded people, and learning from your peers. The enrolment for the awards is also a great chance for family members to work together, and to assess their long term plans and goals for the business.”

Paul Yacoubian, managing director of Craig Corporate, added: “McAlpine & Co were deserving winners of the Large Family Business award last year. Businesses of this type are significant contributors to the Scottish economy and we look forward to the chance to celebrate their success again this year”.

Fraser Campbell, partner and head of family businesses at Campbell Dallas, said: “As advisor to many family businesses within the rural and farming sector, Campbell Dallas are once again looking forward to receiving entries that will demonstrate the versatility and innovation that exists within this important sector in Scotland.

“We are seeing new technology and forward planning from our own client base playing an increasing role in creating great businesses.

Grant Stevenson, Partner, Burness Paull: “I am delighted that Burness Paull continues to sponsor the International Growth award at The Scottish Family Business Awards 2018. Family businesses often operate on a global stage, showcasing the best Scotland has to offer throughout the world. Whether setting foot abroad for the first time or having a long established history trading in international markets, the ambition and vision of those looking to grow internationally and fly the flag for Scotland should be celebrated. I look forward to finding out more about this year’s nominees across all categories, and would encourage family businesses in any sector to consider entering.”

The awards take place on Wednesday December 5 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow.

Entries, which must be submitted by October 17, can be completed online at https://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/familybusiness/

For more information contact senior events executive Nina Holmes on 0141 302 6036.