A security firm, an environmental bag supplier and an online craft store are some of the diverse range of businesses recognised for their achievements at the annual North Tyneside Small Business Awards 2009.
Hundreds of guests attended the event, which is sponsored by North Tyneside Council and recognises the success and contribution of the small business community and the importance it plays in the region.
The winners in each category were:
Service: 2020 Vision Systems
Retail: Funky Hand
Business start-up: Weigh Ahead
Manufacturing: Architectural Doorsets
Young Entrepreneur: The Printed Bag Shop
News Guardian People’s Choice Award: Castles in the Sky
Overall North Tyneside Small Business of the Year: 2020 Vision Systems
North Shields-based 2020 Vision Systems, which provides electronic security for clients such as Northern Rock, Newcastle University and Gentoo, was announced as the overall North Tyneside Small Business of the Year, as well as winning the Service category.
Peter Houlis, Managing Director at 2020 Vision Systems, said: "2020 Vision Systems has been based in the region for over 17 years and during this time the businesses has continued to grow. We now operate throughout the UK and internationally, providing the very latest in integrated security solutions for the private and public sectors. We hope that this success will continue long into the future."
North Tyneside Council’s cabinet member for Economy and Employment, Cllr Frank Lott commented: "All the winners – and all the finalists – have shown that business in the region is still strong and that there are still many success stories. We need to acknowledge these businesses and celebrate their achievements.
"A record number of entries were received this year – increasing by almost a third from last year. This is a great sign, especially considering the current economic climate, that businesses in the region are still thriving and making a big contribution to the economy."
