Courier Business Awards
Celebrating the Best of our Business Community
The results are in and our winners have been announced. Pick up your copy of The Courier or visit us online to see pictures from the night and our winners reactions.
Shortlist
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APPRENTICE
Sponsored By:
- Alfred Ombajen, Persimmon Homes
- Keir McKenna, Hillcrest Homes
- Highly Commended Lucy Jobson, DYW Tay Cities
- Winner Todd Arthur, Fife Council
Sponsored By:
APPRENTICE
This award recognises an individual who has participated in an apprenticeship programme during 2023/2024 and exceeded their employer’s expectations. Entries can be submitted by the provider or apprentice.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Commitment to personal development and progression
- Proof of significant contribution to the workplace
- Use of skills gained through apprenticeship programme
Shortlist
- Alfred Ombajen
- Keir McKenna
- Lucy Jobson
- Winner Todd Arthur
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BRAND MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Sponsored By:
- ALTAR Gin Bothy
- Montrose Port Authority
- Winner Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance
Sponsored By:
BRAND MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
This award is open to all businesses who have maximised the potential of marketing to grow their sales or those of a third party client. This could be through building a social media presence or delivering a targeted marketing campaign.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Creative use of marketing and/or social media platforms
- Proof of improved audience engagement
- Proof of revenue impact/subscribers or other benefits to business
Shortlist
- ALTAR Gin Bothy
- Montrose Port Authority
- Winner Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance
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BUSINESS LEADER
Sponsored By:
- Winner Angela Linton, Hillcrest Homes
- Jimmy Urquhart, Discovery Flexibles
- Tom Hutchison, Montrose Port Authority
Sponsored By:
BUSINESS LEADER
This award is open to any individual or nominated person who has had a game-changing impact on a business operating within Tayside and Fife.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Track record of strong business or project leadership
- Impactful responses to business challenges and opportunities
- Proof of inspiring others
Shortlist
- Winner Angela Linton
- Jimmy Urquhart
- Tom Hutchison
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COMMUNITY
Sponsored By:
- Winner Dundee Bairns
- Hillcrest Futures
- Street Soccer Scotland
- Highly Commended The Enchanted Forest
Sponsored By:
COMMUNITY
This award recognises more than profit groups and businesses who put community at their heart.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Significant contribution to the community
- Ability to influence customers and suppliers to adopt best environment, workplace and community practices
- Commitment to local employment, partnership working and social inclusion
Shortlist
- Winner Dundee Bairns
- Hillcrest Futures
- Street Soccer Scotland
- The Enchanted Forest
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EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Sponsored By:
- Winner Lyndsey Nicholls, APEX Hotels
- Margaret Livingstone, Here's The Plan
- Roger Stout, AtkinsRéalis
Sponsored By:
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
This award recognises a member of staff in a business operating in Tayside and Fife who has made a game-changing impact. This could be someone who has led a new initiative which has brought positive results; someone who regularly goes above and beyond for the company or their colleagues; or a member of staff who has dedicated themselves to the business through long years of service. Entries can be submitted by the business or employee.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Someone who acts as a role model or inspiration for colleagues
- Evidence of behaviour or an initiative which has brought benefits to the business
Shortlist
- Winner Lyndsey Nicholls
- Margaret Livingstone
- Roger Stout
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FAMILY
Sponsored By:
- Calforth Construction
- Caltech Lifts
- Winner The Castlecroft Group
- The ESP Group
Sponsored By:
FAMILY
Celebrating outstanding family owned and operated businesses who call Courier Country home. Open to any business with at least one family member leading the company and others actively involved in the business.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Evidence of family led operations
- Service excellence
- Proof of market traction and commitment to growth
Shortlist
- Calforth Construction
- Caltech Lifts
- Winner The Castlecroft Group
- The ESP Group
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GROWTH
Sponsored By:
- Convergix Automation Solutions
- Winner Alpha Projects
- Growers Garden
Sponsored By:
GROWTH
This award recognises companies which have achieved sustained growth over the past three years. Open to any business from any sector which can show evidence of accelerated turnover growth of 100% or greater over the most recent three-year period.
Winner will demonstrate:
- The reasons for rapidly increasing sales
- An embedded growth culture
- Strategy for future expansion
Shortlist
- Convergix Automation Solutions
- Winner Alpha Projects
- Growers Garden
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INDEPENDENT RETAIL
Sponsored By:
- Winner Bella Mella
- Spoiled Life
- Thomson Technologies
Sponsored By:
INDEPENDENT RETAIL
This award is open to all independent retail businesses operating in Tayside and Fife.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Evidence of retail strategy in store and/or online
- Focus on customer service excellence and USP
- How they plan to build for the future
Shortlist
- Winner Bella Mella
- Spoiled Life
- Thomson Technologies
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INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Sponsored By:
- Winner Convergix Automation Solutions (formally AGR Automation)
- SP Automation & Robotics
- Ten Bio
Sponsored By:
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This award is open to all companies who put innovation and continuous improvement at the heart of their business. Whether it be through teamwork, changes to systems, adopting or developing new products or services or pivoting strategy through the use of technology.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Out of the box thinking and the ability to solve problems
- Commitment to continuous improvement
- Commercial benefits from innovative activities and practices
Shortlist
- Winner Convergix Automation Solutions (formally AGR Automation)
- SP Automation & Robotics
- Ten Bio
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LEGAL AND PROPERTY
Sponsored By:
- Winner Blackadders
- Connelly and Yeoman
- TSPC
Sponsored By:
LEGAL AND PROPERTY
This award is open to professional services firms operating in the legal and property sectors in Tayside and Fife.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Evidence of service excellence
- Commitment to attracting talent and upskilling workforce
- Demonstrate plans for future growth
Shortlist
- Winner Blackadders
- Connelly and Yeoman
- TSPC
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LEISURE, TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY
Sponsored By:
- Winner Carnoustie Golf Links
- Dundee Heritage Trust - Verdant Works
- Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa
- Perth Museum
Sponsored By:
LEISURE, TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY
This award is open to all businesses which provide the best leisure, food and drink, visitor experiences and/or accommodation within Tayside and Fife; showcasing the region to the world.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Evidence of service excellence
- Evidence of brand building and future strategy
- Commitment to attracting talent and upskilling workforce
Shortlist
- Winner Carnoustie Golf Links
- Dundee Heritage Trust - Verdant Works
- Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa
- Perth Museum
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SERVICE
Sponsored By:
- Gowrie Contracts
- Hideaway Experience
- Winner The ESP Group
Sponsored By:
SERVICE
This award recognises service excellence by businesses operating within Tayside and Fife.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Clearly defined customer service objectives and strategy
- Evidence of service excellence and going above and beyond to delight customers
- Commitment to developing talent
Shortlist
- Gowrie Contracts
- Hideaway Experience
- Winner The ESP Group
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SMALL BUSINESS
Sponsored By:
- Ashton McGill
- Economy Car and Van Hire
- NFU Mutual Perth
- Winner Spaces Taylored
Sponsored By:
SMALL BUSINESS
Celebrating the small and micro businesses that form the bedrock of the economy in Courier Country. Open to any business with between 1 and 15 employees.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Business USP and commitment to customer satisfaction
- Proof of strategy for growth
- Commitment to developing workplace talent
Shortlist
- Ashton McGill
- Economy Car and Van Hire
- NFU Mutual Perth
- Winner Spaces Taylored
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TRANSITION TO NET ZERO
Sponsored By:
- Gowrie Contracts
- Kirsty Maguire Architect
- Winner Montrose Port Authority
Sponsored By:
TRANSITION TO NET ZERO
This award is open to any business offering products or services to help the transition to net zero. It is also open to companies, in any sector, who have undergone changes to become more environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Winner will demonstrate:
- A clear net zero strategy
- Investment in upskilling and people to achieve net zero goals
- Environmental benefits to date
Shortlist
- Gowrie Contracts
- Kirsty Maguire Architect
- Winner Montrose Port Authority
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YOUNG BUSINESS
Sponsored By:
- Winner Calforth Construction
- Partners&
- Street Soccer Scotland
Sponsored By:
YOUNG BUSINESS
This award is open to exciting and innovative companies operating within Tayside and Fife which started trading or launched a distinct new venture within the last three years.
Winner will demonstrate:
- Evidence of clear business strategy
- Innovation and commitment to service excellence
- Proof of growth
Shortlist
- Winner Calforth Construction
- Partners&
- Street Soccer Scotland
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Business of the Year
Sponsored By:
- Winner Montrose Port Authority
Sponsored By:
Business of the Year
The Courier Business Awards’ prestigious Business of the Year award
recognises and celebrates the finest company operating in Courier Country.
The winner must uphold strong commercial and social values
and demonstrate excellence in all areas from operations to customer service,
workforce management and corporate responsibility.Shortlist
- Winner Montrose Port Authority
The Courier Business Awards Judges
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Graham Huband
Managing Editor DC Thomson
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David Smith
Managing Partner Henderson Loggie
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Dr Liz Cameron CBE
Director and Chief Executive Scottish Chamber of Commerce
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Caryn Gibson
Business Operations Manager Timber Engineering
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Rob McLaren
Business Editor The Courier
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2024 Partners
Henderson Loggie has been serving Scotland and Scottish business for well over a century. Our vision is to be first choice in Scotland as a place to work and for our services to owner managed businesses.
Our purpose is to help our teams and our clients achieve their potential, to create wealth for the local economy now and to leave legacy for the future in the communities where we are located.
That’s why we have been so involved with the Courier Business Awards since the beginning. It fits our purpose in Courier Country. Our offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow give us national coverage and we are proud to be headquartered in Dundee.
The Awards are a terrific celebration of everything local in Courier Country. We work closely with businesses of all sizes and we see at first hand the effort that goes into making them a success.
Recognising business achievement through the Awards sends out clear messages about the calibre of the organisations operating in this region and, via the Courier, it demonstrates to the wider public the vital role that local companies play as the backbone of our economy.
The Awards represent tangible recognition and reward for the knowledge, skills, capability, hard work and determination of the workforces in the diverse award categories. Courier Country is such a desirable area to build and run a business.
Like you, we want to make a difference in our local area and to see Courier Country grow and fly. The Awards are a showcase of the talent that exists throughout the area who have the same ambition.
Visit Henderson Loggie website
Henderson Loggie has been serving Scotland and Scottish business for well over a century. Our vision is to be first choice in Scotland as a place to work and for our services to owner managed businesses.
Our purpose is to help our teams and our clients achieve their potential, to create wealth for the local economy now and to leave legacy for the future in the communities where we are located.
That’s why we have been so involved with the Courier Business Awards since the beginning. It fits our purpose in Courier Country. Our offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow give us national coverage and we are proud to be headquartered in Dundee.
The Awards are a terrific celebration of everything local in Courier Country. We work closely with businesses of all sizes and we see at first hand the effort that goes into making them a success.
Recognising business achievement through the Awards sends out clear messages about the calibre of the organisations operating in this region and, via the Courier, it demonstrates to the wider public the vital role that local companies play as the backbone of our economy.
The Awards represent tangible recognition and reward for the knowledge, skills, capability, hard work and determination of the workforces in the diverse award categories. Courier Country is such a desirable area to build and run a business.
Like you, we want to make a difference in our local area and to see Courier Country grow and fly. The Awards are a showcase of the talent that exists throughout the area who have the same ambition.
Visit Henderson Loggie websiteAltar is one of Scotland’s leading creative agencies with offices in Dundee and Glasgow.
We are an employee owned company specialising in Branding, Design, Digital, PR & Marketing.
With experienced consultative expertise, we deliver inspired work for clients across Scotland, the UK and beyond, cementing our reputation as a leader in our industry.
Family-owned and full of heart, Apex Hotels is a luxury collection of hotels situated in the heart of the UK’s most vibrant cities – Edinburgh, London, Bath, Glasgow, and Dundee. The 4-star properties, each with their own personalities and distinctive style, are renowned for their sumptuous bedrooms, chic restaurants and bars, stylish spas, modern meetings and events spaces, and above all, their warmer welcome. Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa is perfectly placed for a chic getaway, whether it be for business or leisure.
Visit Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa websiteBlackadders LLP is a full-service Scottish law firm serving private clients, individuals, businesses and organisations from offices in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee.
Blackadders has a broad spectrum of expertise ranging from family matters to business and commercial specialities, including employment, dispute resolution, technology and gaming and commercial real estate and contracts.
The firm’s strategic aim is to become a top five Scottish law firm within the next few years. Under the leadership of joint Managing Partners, Emma Gray and Ryan McKay, the firm is aiming to be an employer of choice in the legal industry and a destination of choice for clients.
The team hopes to achieve their ambition by adopting a forward-thinking approach to the way they work, reframing what it means to be a leading law firm while still using the traditional values of exceptional client service and a strong work ethic.
One of the key strengths of Blackadders is the firm’s ability to work across disciplines and geographies. Clients can expect the best advice from our specialist teams who are used to working together and across sectors to achieve the optimal outcome.
Selecting the right law firm takes a lot of thought. Blackadders’ ambition is for clients to only have to think about it once.
“CalForth Construction Ltd are honoured to be this year’s sponsor of the Employee of the Year award at the Courier Business Awards. We look forward to celebrating with all the fantastic entrants.” – Steven Callander & Grant Handforth – Company Owners / Directors, Calforth Construction
Visit Calforth Construction websiteCameron Presentations is a family run events company with a strong focus on the client experience. The ethos – create engaging, memorable experiences using the highest quality equipment and most talented personnel.
Cameron Presentations provide comprehensive event solutions to a variety of clients operating in a vast array of fields. We have a wealth of experience in facilitating top-end, high-specification events of varying size with an array of service requirements. This diversity in client requirements is fulfilled by the ability to offer a completely comprehensive level of service. The full-service offering allows for client support through idea generation and presentation design to logistical troubleshooting and technical guidance on the day of the event.
Visit Cameron Presentations websiteCarnoustie Golf Links is a world-famous golfing destination, welcoming visitors from around the globe as well as catering for 2,500+ local Season Ticket Holders and the local non-golfing community. With three outstanding courses, the jewel in the crown being The Carnoustie Championship Course – named the World’s Best Golf Course 2019. As a charity, Carnoustie is dedicated to contributing to the community through its Community Benefits Programme which has contributed almost £400k to local good causes since 2014. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Carnoustie strives to balance environmental responsibility with providing an exceptional golfing experience.
Visit Carnoustie Golf Links websiteCoelBrew is a new Scottish gluten-free craft brewery in Guardbridge, St Andrews. Team CB are now stomping out the gluten around Tayside with their first batch of fresh lager ‘STOMP’. Created by local friends and family frustrated at the lack of gluten-free options, the innovative team behind the brewery have been busy getting buds buzzing with pre-sale tasters, launching football partnerships with Arbroath FC and Dundee United Women’s Football Club, ahead of rolling out their first cans and opening their new site for business.
Visit CoelBrew websiteWe are the leading business membership organisation in Dundee & Angus and part of the worldwide long-established Chamber of Commerce brand. We have over 700 members who between them employ over 67,000 people. We work hard to help provide members with the business connections and opportunities they need to flourish.
We represent our members’ views and use our collective voice to influence opinion makers. We are passionate about Dundee and Angus and promote it as a world class destination, helping the local business community to thrive.
Visit Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce websiteThe ESP Group is an experienced and reliable outsourced partner of choice, offering true peace of mind to clients and customers by delivering bespoke customer care solutions. With over 30 years of remarkable growth, the ESP Group is a trusted provider of end-to-end services. From omni-channel customer experience to back-office support, product fulfilment, and cutting-edge technology solutions, its comprehensive offerings cater to diverse client needs. Serving companies globally, delivering exceptional results and exceed expectations.
Visit The ESP Group websiteGilson Gray is a full service law firm with offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, North Berwick and Lincoln. Gilson Gray offers specialist legal, property and financial services. We have risen to be one of Scotland’s most prominent law firms. And we’ve done this by being different. Our partner led teams include accredited specialists and award winning individuals, focused on you and your goal. We harness a team of highly skilled, qualified, professionals representing every aspect of law, to come together to achieve what you need to get done. Many of our lawyers are dual qualified in both Scottish and English law.
Visit Gilson Gray websiteHillcrest was first established in 1967 as Hillcrest Housing Association. Over the decades, we have grown and developed into a large, diverse and continually evolving social organisation. Our mission is to help people live better lives.
The companies within Hillcrest provide housing, maintenance services, support, training and employment opportunities. Our structure allows us to work together to make a positive social impact by contributing to improving the quality of life of the people and communities we work with.
Visit Hillcrest websiteOriginally built by the Baxter family in 1822, the hotel overlooks Dundee’s waterfront and sees two 400-year grade-A listed former mill buildings converted into boutique Hotel Indigo, Daisy Tasker restaurant, brand-new-state-of-the-art bar, Eighteen22, plus aparthotel – Staybridge Suites Dundee, the perfect home away from home for longer stays.
Set in a fantastic location, a ten-minute walk from the waterfront, train station and City Centre; legendary golf courses, stunning walks, and distilleries are all on the doorstep. Whilst luxurious, thoughtful details and clever design capture the culture, spirit and history of the city and add memorable experiences for guests, who consistently rank the hotels in the top 2 places to stay in Dundee.
Visit Hotel Indigo website
Insights Learning & Development is a global organisation which was founded in Dundee, Scotland, 30 years ago. We work with some of the world’s biggest companies, helping their people to increase self-awareness, improve relationships, and solve real and pressing business issues. Through the framework of a common language of colour, we help people understand themselves and others, communicate with impact, tackle business challenges and become more effective teams by putting people right at the heart of everything we do.Insights’ purpose is to create a world where people truly understand themselves and others and are inspired to make a positive difference in everything they do. Our people are guided by our values of making a difference, delivering results, working together, enabling success and enjoying the journey.
Visit Insights websiteOriginally built by the Baxter family in 1822, the hotel overlooks Dundee’s waterfront and sees two 400-year grade-A listed former mill buildings converted into boutique Hotel Indigo, Daisy Tasker restaurant plus aparthotel – Staybridge Suites Dundee, the perfect home away from home for longer stays. And from April, their brand-new state-of-the-art-bar, Eighteen22. Beautifully designed to capture the culture, spirit and history of the city, giving guests a stunning location to enjoy a selection of wine, beers, spirits and cocktails celebrating local home-grown Dundee brands alongside well-known favourites, plus a selection of welcoming, locally sourced dishes.
Set in a fantastic location, a ten-minute walk from the waterfront, train station and City Centre; legendary golf courses, stunning walks, and distilleries are all on the doorstep. Whilst luxurious, thoughtful details and clever design add memorable experiences for guests, who consistently rank the hotels in the top 2 places to stay in Dundee.
Visit Malmaison websiteMcLaughlin & Harvey is a privately owned construction and civil engineering business with over 170 years of experience. Founded in 1853 and now operating throughout the UK and Ireland, the business employs over 800 people and has office locations in Belfast, Glasgow, London, Birmingham and Bristol. With a focus on its three core values of collaboration, commitment and care, the business delivers construction, civil engineering and fit-out projects and provides facilities management services to public and private sector clients in many industries.
Visit McLaughlin and Harvey websiteNCR Atleos is a global technology company, we partner with banks all over the world and enable them to transform their self-service channel and expand access to financial services using our market-leading software, hardware and services. Our network of 15,000 “Cashzone” ATMs provide vital Access to Cash Services to our communities here in the UK, providing convenient, accessible cash to all. We have a long history in Dundee where our team develop highly advanced solutions for the global market in our Research and Development facility.
Visit NCR Atleos website
Neville Robertson Communications is a strategic communications consultancy offering tailored solutions for businesses and organisations. Specialising in media management, corporate communications and public relations, NRC helps clients to be seen and heard by their employees, clients, peers and the wider world. The agency provides strategic advice to leaders and their executive teams, implementing comprehensive communication plans to meet specific organisational needs. NRC’s expertise extends to crisis communication, reputation management and stakeholder engagement. The team also provides media training to enhance understanding of the media and how to deal with interviews.
Visit Neville Robertson Communications websiteFounded in 1972, Persimmon is one of the UK’s leading 5-star house builders. With headquarters in York, the Group operates from 30 regional offices throughout the UK, trading under the brand names of Persimmon Homes, Charles Church and Westbury Partnerships, building quality homes across England, Wales and Scotland. The company is proud to be an accredited Living Wage Foundation employer, directly employing more than 5,000 people and supporting around 86,000 jobs in the construction sector.
Visit Persimmon Homes websiteThe Rocket Group Ltd comprises Rocket Heritage & Archaeology, Rocket Ecology, Rocket Architectural Design & Surveying, Rocket Construction, Rocket Property and Rocket Building Surveying.
Our Heritage & Archaeology team delivers the full scope of mitigation works, as agreed with Planning Authorities, from watching briefs to full-scale invasive excavation. We undertake everything from geophysical surveys and burial archaeology to custom services for historic buildings and heritage-related planning advice.
Rocket’s ecologists run preliminary ecological appraisals and impact assessments, bat, great crested newt and protected species surveys, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and everything in between while cognisant of the wildlife legislation that governs everything we do.
Our Architectural Design & Surveying team plan, design and consult on new-builds and conversions in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors and support clients at any and all stages of their projects from initial concept to construction phase.
Rocket Construction offers end-to-end construction solutions, from landlord and handyman services to multi-property developments and are equally able slot into clients’ projects at whatever stage is necessary to complete the job.
Visit Rocket Group websiteWe deliver top quality advice and service to suit our clients and help businesses of every size – from family businesses, start-ups and SMEs through to large private and public sector organisations. With our lawyers covering every aspect of business set-up, development, compliance, protection and planning, we’re here for your business for the long term.
Visit Thorntons websiteSon of the Sea video production company Scotland provides award winning video production and photography services. Branding, marketing, events, promotional videos, breathtaking photography. All our products are crafted with extensive care and precision and are eye grabbing and are powerful communication tools.
Visit Video Production by Son Of The Sea website2024 Gallery
Hear what our 2024 winners have to say
I am absolutely ecstatic. I totally wasn’t expecting it. For a long time I planned on being a PE teacher. When I left school I went to university and got my degree. But to be a teacher I had to do my post grad but that didn’t quite work out so I started labouring in the construction industry. Luckily I got an apprenticeship when I turned 23 and it’s went from there. I really enjoy what I do.
Ben Wooldridge, marketing and communications officer, said: “We tell the story of what our paramedics and pilots do every single day and our supporters engage with those messages. The award is great because it means we are reaching more people across Scotland. We want our awareness to grow across Scotland. We want everyone to know about the important work we do every day to save lives and we can only do it with their support.”
This win is not just for me but the whole organisation. I was in Australia when I found out I’d been nominated. I was so surprised, the same as I was tonight. We are really busy just now and always looking to do different things. Our mantra is to help people live better lives and that’s what we want to do. If we manage to do that and do it well then it’s great.
Genna Millar, Dundee Bairns manager, said: “This absolutely means the world to us. We work so hard every day to support our community. To be recognised in this way is phenomenal. I started this job the first week of lockdown and I’ve been working away ever since. When I started, I was the only employee and we now have eight members of staff. It’s grown massively but it’s a sad reason why. We are meeting a need.”
I am absolutely overwhelmed. It’s an amazing feeling. I’m normally working at this event and do a 14 hour shift to make sure it goes smoothly. I’ve got so much support from colleagues across the business. I’ve worked here for 20 years in total and I love it.
Jordan Black, managing director, said: “I am over the moon. It’s a special win. I started at the company when I was 15 and turn 30 next weekend. It’s been a long journey. My grandfather Ian Black started the company 40 years ago and I wouldn’t be where I am without him. This award is recognition to us as a family, to my grandfather and the people who work in the business who are just like family.”
Kevin Brown, contracts director, said: “It’s great to be recognised for everything we’ve done in the last seven years in a very challenging industry. We are really appreciative and would like to thank everybody at the Courier Business Awards. We started off with just three guys and now we have over 100 employees and everyone plays an integral part.”
Carmen Sinclair, Bella Mella owner, said: “I feel like everybody is a winner and I am probably lost for words that we have won it. It’s a journey, there are ups and downs. I feel proud of the girls, I feel proud of myself. It’s the first time we’ve been at the awards, and we would love to come back, it’s been an amazing time.”
Ronnie McGill, vice president design and projects, said: “This is a testimony to the staff. Lately, we think it’s important to take a step back and share what we do with the local community and people that work with us. We’re looking for more staff so we’re keen to show people what we can do and what they could be employed doing as part of this global business. We are using the awards and this platform to try and attract staff as well.”
Emma Gray, joint managing partner, said: “For us this award recognises the growth and change within the business in the last year. We’ve rebranded, we’ve heavily invested in our people, our premises and our offering. We are harnessing technology to offer our services in a different way. It’s really positive.”
Leigh O’Connor, commercial manager, said: “It was an unexpected win. It’s nice recognition for the organisation and recognition for us to validate what we’re doing within the business and local community as well. Business is good and we are very buoyant.”
Chief executive and owner Theresa Lawson said: “It’s always an honour and great fun to be here. To take home a win makes it all worthwhile. Business has been very successful and we have some exciting things in the pipeline. The growth trajectory is looking good.”
Adam Taylor Spaces Taylored managing director, said: “I’m blown away and gobsmacked. The competition was very good and I never expected this. To be recognised for this award is amazing. Small business is a toughly fought accolade and I’m extremely proud. It’s been a tough year but we are doing well. We have won a few big contracts and grown as a team.”
Gus Laing, operations manager, said: “This is our first year being nominated so it was quite a shock. I genuinely didn’t think it would happen. The two other nominees, particularly Street Soccer Scotland, I admire. It’s amazing to be recognised on this level. We are a bunch of blokes trying to do the best we can to run a business. It’s huge to be involved in the event.”
TRANSITION TO NET ZERO
Tom Hutchison, Montrose Port Authority chief executive, said: “I’m absolutely delighted. Like the wee boy that we all grew up with, I’m thinking jings, crivvens and help ma boab to be fair. The awards are brilliant, I’ve never been before. I think it’s been absolutely fantastic. It’s the best atmosphere I’ve felt at one of these events. We’ll be back next year, that’s for sure.”
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Tom Hutchison, Montrose Port Authority chief executive was thrilled to pick up the second win of the night for the business. He said: “It feels absolutely fantastic. We are totally privileged. It’s all down to the team. I’ve got a fantastic team, a bunch of people who don’t realise how good they really are. Hopefully this award will demonstrate that we’re going in the right direction. We work hard but we play hard. I go to work every day with my best pals, it’s just a happy place to be. We have a massive amount of ambition. It’s hard to say where we’ll end up, but we will make Montrose and Angus and the east coast of Scotland proud.”
David Smith, Managing Partner, Henderson LoggieDavid Smith, managing partner of Henderson Loggie, said: “We have been proud partners of The Courier Business Awards since its inception more than a decade ago.
“We want to raise awareness of all the great businesses and all the great people working in Tayside and Fife.
“The Courier Business Awards gives them an avenue to shine a light on their businesses and celebrate their personal successes and those of their team.
“I’d encourage everyone to enter. Don’t hide your light under a bushel - shout about what you do.”