The Highland Business Awards is one of the flagship events of Inverness Chamber of Commerce that celebrates the achievements of businesses throughout the region.
The Awards recognise the success of organisations large and small, new and well established, and across all sectors, while offering our business community the chance to socialise with colleagues, rekindle old connections and make new business relationships.
After an intensive day of deliberations back in August, the Highland Business Awards judging panel selected the finalists for our 11 categories. The process was both rewarding and challenging, as this year’s entries showcased exceptional talent, innovation, diversity and expertise from across our vibrant business community.
Colin Marr, CEO of Inverness Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the judging panel, explained: “The quality of entries we reviewed this year was outstanding, making the judging process very difficult but a very gratifying exercise – reading about all the amazing work, initiatives and people that makes our region such a unique place to do business.
“The discussions were intense, and the decisions in-depth, so we were extremely grateful to have the insights of our guest judges, from each of our sponsors, who brought their expert knowledge. We are therefore confident that the finalists represent the best of the best.”
Fast forward a few weeks to Friday 27 September where our Highland Business Award winners were crowned 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 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 Award 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
Plus Pentland Ferries was awarded Highland Business of the Year.
sponsored by Balfour Beatty
Trophy Sponsor – W M Donald
2024 Highland Business Award Gallery
