The Highland Business Awards winners were crowned today (Friday 27 September) in an inspiring celebration of business excellence at The Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness.

This much-anticipated lunch and awards, and the finale of Highland Business Week, brought together the very best of the region’s business community, marking a day of recognition of everything that has been achieved in the past year.

As principal sponsor, The Highland Council reaffirmed its commitment to regional development and business success. Derek Brown, Chief Executive of Highland Council, expressed his pride in sponsoring the event and highlighted his shared goals with Inverness Chamber of Commerce in fostering sustainable growth across Inverness and the wider Highland region.

This year’s keynote speaker, Alasdair Ferguson, a leading figure in the Highlands’ business community and last year’s Highland Business Leader of the Year, gave a thought-provoking address to award guests highlighting the opportunities and challenges faced by Highland businesses.

Colin Marr, CEO of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, shared his thoughts on the significance of the event, “The Highland Business Awards showcase the creativity, comradery and commitment of our local businesses. It’s always inspiring to see the incredible work being done by companies across the region. These awards are not just about individual recognition but about celebrating the strength of our business community. It’s a privilege to support our members and this collaborative network, and I’d like to congratulate every finalist and winner for their achievements.”

Today’s winners reflect every aspect that defines business in the Highlands. Inverness Chamber of Commerce would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to all winners and finalists. Each nominee has played an essential role in driving our region’s success and fostering a thriving, supportive business environment in the Highlands.

2024 Highland Business Awards Winners:

Highland Business Award for Innovation sponsored by University of the Highlands and Islands: Kishorn Port

Highland Business Award for Resilience sponsored by Caithness Chamber of Commerce: Gow’s Lybster

Highland Business Award for Positive Environmental Impact sponsored by Ri Cruden: Pentland Ferries

Highland Business Award for Global Growth sponsored by Rathbones Investment Management: Birlinn Tech

Highland Business Award for Digital Initiative: Highlands Rewilding

Highland Business Award for Best Marketing Campaign: Muckle Media and the Loch Ness Centre

Highland Business Award for Community Engagement by a charity sponsored by Vattenfall: The Ledge

Highland Business Award for Community Engagement by a business sponsored by Vattenfall Parklands: Care Homes

Highland Business Award for Employer of the Year: Highland BlindCraft

Highland Business Award for Young Employee of the Year sponsored by The Springfield Group: Adrian Peterwas – Aquascot

Highland Business Award for Business Leader of the Year sponsored by Saffery: Calum MacPherson – Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport

Highland Business of the Year sponsored by Balfour Beatty: Pentland Ferries

As another successful Highland Business Week draws to a close, the spirit of community, collaboration, and shared purpose remains strong. We look forward to seeing how this year’s finalists and winners continue to shape the future of the Highlands’ business landscape. Congratulations once again to all!