Kevin Smith, the Chief Executive of the IW Chamber Of Commerce
“Tonight has been a fabulous celebration of Island business in all its diverse glory, from composite manufacturers, high-tech to tourism, from start-ups to word class businesses. We’re seeing a lift in the Island’s economy. That’s reflective of the national situation too but there’s a lot of optimism and positive energy here tonight and hopefully that will continue to grow. This event brings businesses together, along with some of the Island’s strategic decision makers like the leader of the Council, the MP, the head of economic development who are here tonight. They don’t normally get to see businesses like this. We have a ‘can-do’ business community that needs to be supported, without barriers to employment or growth.”
Business Of The Year Award
Winner:
In2action
Customer Service Award – sponsored by Lloyds Bank Cardnet
Winner:
In2action
Nominees:
JR Zone, The Mobile Vet
In2action MD George Ross:
“I can’t believe it. To be given these awards and to be respected by the Island’s business community is just unbelievable. These awards are for our staff team and our managers – the 14 people who work in our head office in Gurnard and also the 300 people who work all over the world and have all been trained on the Island. They make it happen. We didn’t expect to win anything! We came along tonight to be part of the business community.”
Member Of The Year Award
Winner:
Dale Howarth, Jigsaw Sales And Marketing
“It’s unbelievable. I’ve been hugging this award since I picked it up and I’m not putting it down! I come to the event every year because this is a pivotal event for members. I never for a moment think of myself. When they called my name out I couldn’t believe it. I’m still in a state of shock. I love the Chamber. There’s such a good team there who do so much for Island businesses. I never expected to get an award for a minute.”
New Business Award – sponsored by Glanvilles
Winner:
Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Community Interest Company
Highly Commended:
West Wight Alpacas
Nominee:
Wight Karting
Jo and Giles Boddington, Bodster Equine:
“We’re surprised and absolutely thrilled. We’ve only been on the island for three years and have worked very hard to develop our innovative business. We are passionate about what we do and feel privileged to work with our small herd of ponies and our horse. It’s really them who make the difference with our learners – we are constantly inspired by the magic they work. We work under the umbrella of ‘Equine Assisted Qualifications’ founded by Tricia Day, through whom we gain Continual Professional Development and training. We would like to thank Rob Brindley and the staff at Isle of Wight Adult Community Learning who believed in us when we began and have been a constant support over the last three years.”
IW Lottery Small Business Award – sponsored by Liz Earle Beauty Co. Limited
Winner:
JR Zone
Nominees:
Betapak, Innovative Physics
Peter Tomlinson, JR Zone
“It’s wonderful. We picked up the business four years ago when it was bankrupt for the second time and it’s incredible to be here tonight as Small Business Of The Year. My heart sings for Debbie the manager who has worked incredibly hard for many years. I’m so pleased for her. The first thing I did was to thank the team because it’s the staff that delivered. This is their achievement and their award.”
