The 2012 Swale Business Awards took place on Friday 12th October in The Marquee at The Barnyard in Upchurch with a record attendance of over 170 guests.
With record entrants selecting the winners was more difficult than ever before. Paul Price, Partner of IMM-UK and chairman of the judges remarked, “I know the judges had an extremely difficult selecting the winners, as all the businesses short-listed more than deserved to win at the awards”
Small Business of the Year Award - EcoVillage
The Small Business of the Year award went to EcoVillage, the on site cafe based at Kent Science Park. Over the last year EcoVillage has expanded into corporate catering for Sittingbourne Businesses.
Retail and Hospitality Award - Judd's Folly Hotel
Judd's Folly Hotel, based in Faversham won the Retail and Hospitality award. Having undergone extensive refurbishment the hotel is now thriving and bigger than ever.
Customer Service & Commitment award – Country Brides
The Customer Service and Commitment award went to Country Brides of Faversham. Under new management for over 2 years the wedding specialists have been going from strength to strength.
Business of the Year Runner-Up – Unipet International
The runner-up for the Swale Business of the Year 2011 award was Unipet International. They are a leading innovator within the pet food industry and have achieved huge success over the last few years as main suppliers to some of the biggest superstores.
Business of the Year – Blossoms Care Services
Blossoms Care Services Ltd were the overall winners of the Swale Business of the Year 2012 award. Established in 2008 they provide community and living support for adults with learning disabilities, the elderly and vulnerable adults. Working out of Sittingbourne, they currently employ 65 members of staff delivering a top quality service.
A record 170 guests attended the Gala Awards Dinner. The guests enjoyed drinks on arrival, followed by a sumptuous three-course meal prior to the winners being announced. Dancing and further celebrations were then enjoyed by all.
The Mayoress of Swale was in attendance; presenting framed certificates to all the finalists and later in the evening received a cheque for over £2000 to be donated to the charity Help for Heroes. The funds were generously donated by the guests during the evening with a raffle being held and Paul Sturdgess, the Company Director of Blossoms Care Services donated his £1,000 winner’s cheque, bringing the total amount raised to over £2,000.