THE partners and staff at Pets ’n’ Vets are in no doubt as to what it means to be voted Glasgow’s Favourite Business.

Last October they were elated to learn that they had become the latest company to win the coveted title, which is voted for by readers of the Evening Times.

Oliver Jackson, one of the three partners at the Pets ’n’ Vets Family, said of the award: “It has been absolutely terrific. It really has been a stamp of approval from the Glasgow public and we have really enjoyed being Glasgow’s favourite business.

“It has been very exciting for all of the staff.”

Like many previous winners of the award, which is part of the annual Glasgow Business Awards, Pets ’n’ Vets have the award featured prominently on its website.

“People have been very pleased for us, and proud of us,” added Oliver. “There’s no doubt that our clients feel that the award is going to the right people. Certainly, in terms of kudos, it has been terrific for the profile of the practice.”

The award is part of the Glasgow Business Awards, run by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.

Pets ’n’ Vets was the runaway winner of the 2015 award, reflecting its strong client base and Glasgow identity.

Oliver and his two co-partners – Ivor Lough and Ross Allan – all grew up within walking distance of the company’s original Pollokshaws branch.

And all three of them did work experience at the practice while they were at school, before all of them went on to study at Glasgow University Veterinary School.

At the time of the award last year, Oliver spoke for his colleagues when he said: “Our practice has always been hugely proud of its Glasgow roots, Glasgow style and Glasgow banter and, as such, regard this award as the ultimate accolade from Glaswegians for our locally-owned and friendly partnership.

“This award is a massive pat on the back for our amazing vets, nurses, receptionist, ANAs and auxiliaries.” 

HE continued: “It feels great to know that the general public recognise that, as animal lovers, we understand just how special their pets are.

The title will again be contested this year as the 19th Glasgow Business Awards are launched. The sponsor is Bank of Scotland.

The prestigious awards dinner and ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 6, at the Hilton Glasgow, and is a highly anticipated part of the city’s events calendar.

Fourteen competitive categories are now open for entry, including Glasgow’s Favourite Business.

Nominations are now being invited for this high-profile category. E-mail your suggestions – whether it’s for a well-known company or your local shopkeeper – to businessawards@eveningtimes.co.uk or send them by post to Glasgow’s Favourite Business, News Desk, Evening Times, 200 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 3QB. Deadline for your e-mail or postal suggestions is June 19.

Also presented on the evening of October 6 will be the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Award for Lifetime Achievement, recognising long-term dedication to the city’s business landscape. 

Last year it was won by Baron Gordon of Strathblane CBE, or Jimmy Gordon as he’s widely known. Lord Gordon was chief executive of the then parent company of Radio Clyde, Scottish Radio Holdings, in the early 90s and chair from 1996 to 2005.

Others who fared well last year included insulation specialist, A.C. Whyte & Co. Ltd., which was awarded the title of Family Business of the Year for the third year running. Holiday specialists Barrhead Travel were delighted to win the Creative Marketing category.

Glasgow Times:

(Ross Allan and his partners say their award last year has been a stamp of approval from the Glasgow public)

STUART PATRICK, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Glasgow Business Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise and honour the achievements of businesses across our city.

“Every firm is eligible to enter – from the local shopkeeper to a FTSE 100 company, regardless of turnover, size or sector. The awards have become a staple in the business community, and are a great platform to highlight Glasgow’s business success. There are 16 awards in total to be won on the night.

Stuart added: “We are proud to be celebrating our 19th year of the Awards, and I’m sure it will be a glorious and exciting evening.”

Graham Blair, regional director, Scotland, Bank of Scotland, said: “The Glasgow Business Awards are a landmark event in the Scottish business calendar, providing local businesses with a valuable opportunity to showcase and celebrate their achievements. 

“Bank of Scotland has been a supporter of this event for 15 years now, and over that time we have seen a huge spike in the level of talent and acumen across the city. By shining a spotlight on local achievements, the awards play an important role in laying the foundations for a healthy business landscape.” 

You can view details of the award categories and descriptions and download the category specific application forms from www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com.

For further information, telephone 0141 204 2121 or e-mail preeti.jassal@
glasgowchamberofcommerce.com.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is June 24.