On Thursday, 18th September 2025, the highly anticipated Caithness Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony took place at the Norseman Hotel in Wick. This prestigious event has become a cornerstone of the local business calendar, annually attracting the region’s most prominent business figures.
Guests from across the UK were warmly welcomed by Louise Sinclair, Vice Chair of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, followed by an address from Trudy Morris, Caithness Chamber’s CEO and DYW North Highland lead, the event’s principal sponsor. Now in its 10th year, DYW North Highland has made a significant contribution to the region, supporting a generation of young people and delivering thousands of events. Through this work, DYW North Highland has inspired countless young minds, created meaningful opportunities, and built a strong, positive narrative about the future of our young people.
Andrew Mackay, owner of the Caithness Collection and longstanding member of the Caithness Chamber board, warmly welcomed guests and spoke about the Chamber’s recent evolution to incorporate Venture North into its portfolio, and the launch of its Destination Strategy to support sustainable tourism across the North Highland region.
Andrew then introduced the evening’s guest speaker, Rebecca Brooks, Managing Director of Abbey UK and Chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance. Drawing on her extensive experience in Scotland’s tourism industry, Rebecca shared valuable insights and spoke passionately about the wealth of opportunities available for businesses in the North Highlands to unlock the region’s full tourism potential.
Following the dinner and business addresses, guests were treated to an entertaining performance by bestselling author, comedian, and compere Ian Moore.
Young Businesswomen recognised at Annual Awards
A highlight of the evening was the Business Awards Ceremony, which offers a platform for young businesses and entrepreneurs in the North Highland region to showcase their achievements.
The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2025 was presented to Abbie Gunn of AEG Services by award sponsor Shirley McIntosh, Partner at Saffery Inverness.
For many, redundancy can be a daunting setback. For 20-year-old Abbie Gunn from Caithness, it was the spark that inspired a new path. Abbie, who founded AEG Services after losing her previous job, has built a business rooted in her love for animals and her determination to make a difference in her local community.
From dog walking and pet care to equine services, gardening and even farm work, her business reflects her willingness to roll up her sleeves and support people in all kinds of practical ways.
Abbie has already invested heavily in her professional development, holding a Canine First Aid Diploma and a Dog Training Diploma, with a Canine Behaviour Training Diploma currently underway.
When her name was announced at the awards ceremony, Abbie admits she was stunned.
“Winning Young Entrepreneur of the Year has meant the absolute world to me, it’s such an incredible recognition of all my hard work. It still feels a bit surreal, and I’ve been overwhelmed by how many people have congratulated me – even strangers stopping me on the street.
“I’ve felt so much positivity from clients, fellow small business owners and neighbours. That encouragement means the world to me.”
The Young Business Award 2025 was presented to Thistle & Cloth by Richard Copeland, Director of Pentland Floating Offshore Windfarm and sponsor of the award.
Founded in Ardgay in July 2024 by Hannah Macfarlane, Thistle & Cloth specialises in creating bespoke tartan dresses and kilts, blending traditional techniques with a contemporary aesthetic.
Hannah’s entrepreneurial journey began in an unlikely place: during her 13 years of service career as a military musician. With a background in garment construction, she was drawn to the tradition of kiltmaking. What began as curiosity became a business opportunity when she discovered the craft was classed as endangered.
Hannah pursued her passion for garment construction and design, studying under renowned tutor Linda Gillies, where she honed her skills in traditional kiltmaking.
Hannah’s ambition is to establish a heritage crafts hub in her local community, creating opportunities for local artists, supporting traditional skills, and inspiring future generations. Thistle & Cloth has already gained recognition through the Heritage Crafts Award, the Scottish Edge Award, and the UnLtd Award, which celebrates social entrepreneurs delivering meaningful social impact.
Reflecting on the Young Business Award, Hannah said: “My heart was racing when my name was announced. It’s so lovely to receive recognition, not only for myself but also for our local area. As a working mother with two young children, the closure of our local nursery really opened my eyes to the challenges faced by remote and rural communities like ours. Thistle & Cloth is about supporting heritage crafts, but more importantly, I hope to create opportunities through employment and training, give recognition to skilled craft makers, promote our area, and establish a beautiful studio that will encourage visitors to discover this very special part of the North Highlands.”
