A SWEET company and vintage clothes seller have been recognised as two of the best in the East Midlands at the FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards.
Beating off stiff competition from hundreds of entries the Sweet Lounge and Vintage Guru Ltd are two of 12 businesses from across six counties that will now represent the region at the UK finals at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool in May.
Jennifer Thomas (pictured right), FSB development manager, said: “They are reflective of the vibrancy, innovation and tenacity that makes up our small business community.
“It has been thrilling to see so many businesses in the East Midlands enthusiastically take part in our awards and the sheer scale and diversity of those who entered is a testimony to the vitality of the small business community in the region.”
The FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards celebrate the best small businesses from the length and breadth of the country. The Sweet Lounge won the Sustainability Award in recognition of its product range of ‘guilt-free’ sweets that are both ethical and sustainable including its 100%-compostable wrappers.
Greta McDonald main picture), who set up the company in 2021, said: “It has been great to get the recognition and for people to recognise the sustainability behind what we are doing which is at the heart of our operation.”
Vintage Guru Ltd, a thriving emporium with 90 traders in Giles Street, Northampton, won the Community Award. It works with traders including makers and young people, specialising in second-hand clothing, household items, records and upcycled gifts.
Founder and owner Julie Teckman set up the enterprise just over five years ago. Since then, more than 300 traders have worked with the emporium which has also supported community projects and people looking for work experience.
“I feel really honoured that we have won this award,” Julie said. “The award recognises our work with the community which really means a lot. We work hard to be part of the community, which is why I am really, really pleased.”