12 small businesses from across the East of England have been revealed as finalists in the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Celebrating Small Business Awards 2024 – with two from here in Essex making it through to the finals.
Stort Valley Gifting in Harlow have been crowned ‘Micro Business Winners’, whilst Vanlife Conversions Ltd in Colchester have been named as winners of the ‘Service Excellence Award’, (the category with the highest number of applications).
Ann Scott, Development Manager (Essex) at FSB said: “Congratulations to all 12 of the East of England FSB Celebrating Small Business Award winners. They are reflective of the vibrancy, innovation and tenacity that make up our community of 5.5 million small business across the UK”.
Reflecting on the high calibre of entries, she continued: “It’s been thrilling to see so many small businesses in the East of England enthusiastically take part in our awards. The sheer scale and diversity of those who entered is a testimony to their resilience and vitality. With the cost-of-living crisis, things are still tough for our small businesses so it’s inspiring to see so many businesses thriving”.
With record numbers of entries this year, the awards are designed to recognise and celebrate the achievements of small businesses and the self-employed from across the UK.
Finalists from across twelve areas will now proceed to the national UK finals which take place at a VIP awards ceremony on 9 May at Blackpool’s iconic Winter Gardens.
Emma Robson from Stort Valley Gifting reacted to winning: “There are so many incredible small businesses in the East of England so for us to be recognised with the Micro Business award is a true honour.
“As a business, we are passionate about championing local; not only with our gift hampers, which focus on the best of Herts and Essex, but also with the suppliers we use from our desks to our ribbon printers, and everything in-between.
“We believe that small businesses are at the heart of every community and hope that by winning this award it will allow us to share with others the delights our region has to offer. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us in our journey – without our customers we wouldn’t be where we are today”.
Emily Arnold from Vanlife Conversions Ltd added: ”We are absolutely delighted to hear that we have won the East of England Service Excellence Award. We strive to form a genuine connection with each client, working closely to create their personalised off-grid van as each van facilitates the next chapter in their lives.
“This award is a resounding testament to our team's dedication and passion. They consistently go above and beyond, ensuring our clients’ expectations are not just met, but exceeded.
“To our cherished clients, thank you for entrusting us with your dreams. And to the Federation of Small Business, thank you so much for this honor and recognition. It truly means so much”.
The full list of the East of England winners can be found here.
