More than 400 people will gather at the Ardoe House next week (Thursday, June 30) to celebrate business success at one of the North-east’s most prestigious awards ceremonies.
Tickets for the Elevator Awards 2016 sold out in record time and the event is being hailed as the most successful to date, with the number of applicants up 25% on last year.
The awards - which are in their 17th year - aim to commend business excellence, entrepreneurial behaviour and outstanding community contributions made by top businesses in Aberdeen City and Shire.
Guests at the black tie event will hear from keynote speaker, Richard Whitehead, a famous marathon runner and sprinter, Paralympian and double amputee.
The finalists this year represent a range of up-and-coming businesses, innovative organisations and firms from sectors including energy, technology, sport, leisure, food and drink, beauty and professional services.
Professor Gary McEwan, chief executive of Elevator - a social enterprise which works across Grampian and Tayside to help facilitate the start-up and growth of new and existing businesses - said the awards provide local businesses with the perfect opportunity to showcase what they can do for their community.
“Year on year we are amazed by the number and quality of the applications we have and this is testament to the incredible businesses and entrepreneurs we have on our doorstep,” he said.
“This year has been outstanding, in the face of the current economic downturn we had a record number of entries and the Awards Ceremony has sold out in record time.
“We are absolutely over-the-moon to have such an inspirational keynote speaker as Richard Whitehead. Richard has encountered many challenges in his life and has proven time and time again that he has the strength of mind and body to overcome these and excel in what he does.
“We would like to thank everyone who has entered the awards and wish the very best of luck to all our finalists.”
The Royal Bank of Scotland is the principal partner and sponsor of the awards. Russell Whyte, director with the Royal Bank of Scotland's corporate and commercial team, said: "The Royal Bank of Scotland is once again very pleased to be supporting the Elevator Awards.
"Every year it is a reminder of the crucial work and importance businesses in the North-east play in the success and prosperity of the Scottish economy. This year we've been delighted with the quality and standard of entries which has made judging such a difficult process.
"We wish every finalist the greatest success this year."