THE shortlist for the Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards has been announced.
The award ceremony takes place next Friday lunchtime at the Borders College Campus in Galashiels.
Councillor Vicky Davidson, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for economic development said: “There has been a great response to the awards and the judges were faced with a high quality field of entries across the board.”
Across seven categories, 23 businesses have been shortlisted, reflecting what Ms Davidson describes as “the strength and depth” of the Borders economy.
The nominations are:
Start-up/new business of the year – Roulotte Retreat; Ryan McGee Carpentry; Scottish Borders Brewery.
Technology and innovation business of the year – Eildon Concrete Products; Global Sports Innovation; Qube.
Marketing campaign of the year – Borders Vintage Automobile Club; County Hotel Selkirk; The Border Mill.
Tourism business of the year – Cocoa Black; NSC Partnership; Roulotte Retreat.
Employer of the year – Aquarius Hair Design; Hawick Knitwear; Stark Main & Co.
Green business of the year – Borders Croft; Scottish Borders Brewery; You Can Cook.
Retail and town centre business of the year – A. Hume Outfitters; Cocoa Black; Henderson’s; Osso Restaurant; Pharlanne Delicatessen & Bistro.
Linda Chapman of Maplehurst Boutique Guest House in Galashiels, winners in the creative marketing category last year, told us: “Winning the award has given us greater exposure through being able to advertise that we were an award winner.
“This is especially relevant on our website, and guests often comment on the award and how it encouraged them to visit the Borders.
“We value the recognition from our peers and the wider industry, and it has enabled us to make connections and to promote the achievements of the business community in the Borders.”