Hartpury University and Hartpury College proudly hosted the SoGlos Gloucestershire Business Awards on Thursday 17 October 2024, celebrating the very best of the county’s diverse business community. It was the first business awards event of its kind to be held at Hartpury Equine, providing an exciting showcase for future opportunities at the venue.
The event brought together partners, finalists and special guests to exclusively reveal the winners and highly commended businesses across 19 categories – including the Hartpury University and Hartpury College-sponsored Most Innovative Business of the Year.
Hartpury has sponsored the award category since the event first began. This year, the female-led Paradise Tattoo Studio were worthy winners following their recognition for empowering people to reclaim their self-confidence following breast cancer diagnoses and mastectomy surgery, alongside traditional tattooing.
Nova Blue Technologies was named Business of the Year 2024, a coveted title handpicked by headline co-partners Hazlewoods and Willans LLP Solicitors.
With the calibre of entries being even higher this year than ever before, the respected judging panel, comprised of representatives from headline co-partners and each category partner, had the difficult task of whittling down the shortlist, with only the very best making it through as a finalist.
The event was a huge success, with a delicious supper provided by Hungry Monkey and celebratory drinks from Cellar Supplies. BBC Radio Gloucestershire’s Steve Knibbs compèred the event, which was opened with a speech from Professor Andy Collop, Vice-Chancellor, Principal and CEO of Hartpury University and Hartpury College. In his speech, he paid tribute to the ‘incredible talent and entrepreneurial spirit’ of the county and encouraged the 350 businesses present to engage with the huge variety of partnership opportunities that exist at Hartpury.
Stuart Emmerson, Director of Business Development at Hartpury University and Hartpury College added: “It’s fantastic to shine a light on these wonderful businesses. I know I speak for the entire Hartpury team when I say how inspirational it is to see the drive, determination and collaboration of the individuals and businesses on display each year. This event has become a special part of the regional business calendar and it’s a real privilege to be able to host such a prestigious occasion.
“Whether through research partnerships, events, facility hire, team away days, student placements or sponsorship, we have a huge variety of ways to support businesses and help them to grow. I’d urge any business to reach and out and explore the power of a Hartpury partnership.”
Click here to see the full list of 2024 winners.