Scottish Family Business Awards 2023: Winners announced

The award, sponsored by Malcolm Group, was one of 12 handed out during a ceremony hosted by entertainer Edward Reid and attended by representatives of leading family-run businesses from across the country.

During the evening there was a second win for Border when it received the  Commitment to the Community title for its long-term dedication to charitable giving  to local causes.

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It was a night for double titles, with energy efficiency renovations specialists Union Technical Services being named winners of both the Fastest Growing Family Business Award, sponsored by Business Gateway, and the Scottish Family Business of the Year (Small / Medium) sponsored by Virgin Money.

Meanwhile Taylors Snacks won the Business Innovation Award for their new approach to the snack foods sector, through healthier alternatives and modern nutritional values, while board member Neil Ross received a commendation in the Recognition Award.

The outright winner of the title was Gavin Money of the NWH Group, who was praised by the judges for his: “exceptional leadership and resilience during a challenging year for the NWH Group following the sudden passing of CEO Mark Williams in 2023.”

The judges said that Money had guided the family business through grief and uncertainty and that his expertise and dedication had delivered record financial success while honouring his predecessor’s legacy.

Event host Edward Reid on stage at The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2024 in association with Business Gateway, Marriott hotel, Glasgow. (Image: Colin Mearns) Also during the evening, Caulders Garden Centres, which have 10 branches across Scotland, were named winners of the Customer Service Excellence award thanks to their consistent high-quality service and impressive feedback, while Hebrides Cruises received the Green Family Business of the Year title for their model of sustainable tourism and local sourcing.

Seabirds-and-Seal The Original Noss Boat Tours was named Scottish Family Business of the Year (Micro)  sponsored by Business Gateway  for its year-on-year growth, strong community connections, and commitment to inclusivity.

The judges said that, by harnessing Shetland’s natural capital, they had created local employment and implemented a solid sales and marketing strategy, exemplifying the values sought in a business.

And during a week that brought some of the first snow falls of winter to the Highlands, it was fitting that Lecht Ski Company Ltd were named winners of the Rural Family Business of the Year award.

The judges chose the Lecht Ski Company for their enduring presence and impact in a remote Scottish area. Founded 47 years ago, it has grown from humble beginnings to a beloved community ski centre, now run by the second generation that is blending family legacy and sustainable practices, with dedication to local engagement.

Passing on a family business is not always straightforward but it can result in even greater successes and Peter Facenna of Allied Vehicles Limited was awarded the Next Generation Award for his entrepreneurial leadership of Allied Vehicles Limited. Under his guidance, the company added £100 million in revenue, expanded into Spain, and prioritised community involvement.

Hugh Lightbody of Business Gateway on stage at The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2024 in association with Business Gateway, Marriott hotel, Glasgow (Image: Colin Mearns)

Meanwhile Rachel Littlejohn of Newton Property Management received a commendation in the same category.

And in the final title of the night, the award for Outstanding Contribution – sponsored by Strathclyde Business School, went to brothers Afzal Khushi and Akmal Khushi, owners of Trespass, the hugely successful outdoor clothing and equipment company.

Afterwards, John Anderson of Strathclyde Business School, said: “Family businesses are the original responsible businesses. The level of innovation and investment, commitment to employees and the environment and the scale of ambition demonstrated by all the finalists and winners was hugely impressive.  The Triple Bottom Line (profit, people and planet) in action.”

Meanwhile Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer, Business Gateway National Unit, said: “Judging and attending the Family Business Awards has been an incredibly rewarding experience. From the impressive innovation and resilience shown by all the finalists, to the inspiring stories of legacy and dedication, it’s clear that family businesses are the backbone of our economy. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners — your hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are truly deserving of this recognition. Supporting the awards was an easy choice for us as we believe in celebrating the values of integrity and collaboration that drive family-owned businesses. These awards not only highlight success, but also encourage a continued commitment to the values that make family businesses so unique and impactful.”

 And David Henderson, Head of Strategic Finance West of Scotland, Virgin Money, commented: “The awards were a fantastic celebration of family business in Scotland. Virgin Money were privileged to continue to play our part in honouring the success and achievements of all the finalists and the winners on the night, recognising a diverse range of businesses from every corner of the Scottish economy in their drive to grow within their communities on the foundations of strong family traditions whilst balancing innovation and sustainability. We extend our congratulations to everyone involved.”