The recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced today [6 May], celebrating the achievements of leading businesses from across the UK and Channel Islands.
Eleven Scottish businesses across a range of different sectors have been recognised by His Majesty the King as among the best in the country, highlighting the ambition, ingenuity, and success of our diverse business community.
The businesses awarded cover a variety of sectors including biotech, technology and the spirits industry, and are based around the country, from North Lanarkshire to Edinburgh and the Highlands.
Three Scottish companies were awarded for their innovative practices, seven for their achievements in international trade and one for promoting opportunity through social mobility.
By supporting more people into work, developing new innovations and exporting the best Britain has to offer around the world, businesses like these play a key role in the UK Government’s mission to go further and faster for economic growth, and put more money in more working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.
Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports said:
“There are some excellent Scottish businesses recognised in this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise: from Impact Subsea’s cutting-edge technology to Glencairn Crystal’s premium glassware.
“I wish the winners every success as they continue to grow, innovate and prosper, and commend the invaluable contributions they have already made to communities at home in Scotland and abroad, helping to boost the UK economy.”
Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said:
“Huge congratulations go to all eleven Scottish winners of the King’s Award for Enterprise. Innovative companies like these are a key part of our Plan for Change – vital to delivering economic growth in Scotland, along with good, skilled jobs. It is amazing to see such business drive and flair right across Scotland.”
This year’s recipients from Scotland include Glencairn Crystal Studio, a business based in East Kilbride, which specialises in the design, creation and supply of premium drinks packaging. They have been recognised in the Innovation category.
Scott Davidson, New Product Development Director at Glencairn Crystal, said:
“We are truly honoured and thrilled to have received The King’s Award. As a family run business for over 40 years, we have a valued team of talented employees and innovation is at the core of everything we do.
“This award is a testament to the passion, creativity, and dedication of everyone here at Glencairn Crystal, and to our mission of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in glassware.”
Impact Subsea is a world-leading provider of sonar and sensor solutions for underwater vehicles and associated applications. Based in Aberdeen, they have been recognised in the International Trade category.
Benedict H.D. Grant, Managing Director of Impact Subsea, said:
“Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade is an incredible honour and a testament to the hard work, dedication and innovation of the entire Impact Subsea team.
“It’s a proud moment for us, recognising our commitment to excellence and our success in expanding our reach in the global, subsea technology sector. This award inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the world stage.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 59th year, has awarded over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965.
His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – the King’s representatives in each county – will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special royal reception.
Eligible businesses are free to apply for one or more categories. The recipients pass a robust assessment process, and were judged by experts from the industry, including a representative from the Scottish Chamber of Commerce, academia, the voluntary sector, and senior officials in Whitehall. On that basis, each year, The King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients are recommended by the Prime Minister.
Charandeep Singh, judge for the King’s Awards for Enterprise and Deputy Chief Executive at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said:
“It was a real privilege to see the incredible innovation and impact coming from businesses across Scotland.
“The calibre of this year’s Scottish winners was truly inspiring and they are shining examples of what’s possible when ambition meets purpose. I would strongly encourage more Scottish businesses to put themselves forward for this prestigious award.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain national recognition and showcase the outstanding entrepreneurship happening right here in Scotland.”
