It was an evening celebrating the experience and innovation in the North West with lots of surprises and recognition for local businesses.
The awards were sponsored by Derry City and Strabane District Council and invited nominations from businesses and entrepreneurs operating within the council area.
The big winner of the evening in the Business/Entrepreneur of the Year category was Little Acorns Bookstore. Founded in 2010 by Jenni Doherty, Little Acorns Bookstore was borne of a market stall of 100 books. Now, the bookstore boasts a stock of over 45,000 books and has a strong online presence.
Congratulating the winners, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said: “I want to extend my congratulations to all who were shortlisted for the North West Business Awards and all who picked up accolades this evening. These businesses are playing a hugely important role in driving the local economy and adding to the diversity of exciting products and services available here in the North West. They are an inspiration to anyone setting out in the business world. This is an exciting time for Derry and Strabane, with our City Deal plans afoot and the opportunities this will bring for both local business and those who choose to invest in our skilled and talented people.”
9.
Rachel Melaugh, Michael Johnston of In Your Space, winners of the NW Creative Industry of the Year award, pictured with the award sponsor, Fergal Rafferty of Foyleside Shopping Centre, Ceara Ferguson, City Centre Initiative and Anna Doherty, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.
10. Chamber of Commerce - Awards
Charlie Kennedy, Charlie Kennedy, Sandra Wylie, Clare Muldoon, Brian O’Neill, Ava Sweeney, Victoria Killeen, Rachel Gallagher of Enterprise North West, winners of the Contribution to the NW Economy Award, pictured with the award sponsor, Brenda Morgan or City of Derry Airport, Ceara Ferguson, City Centre Initiative, Anna Doherty, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.
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Michelle Doherty, Emma Davis, Selina Horshi of the Best Western Plus White Horse Hotel, winner of NW Hotel of the Year, award sponsored by Dillon Bass. Also pictured is Ceara Ferguson, City Centre Initiative, Anna Doherty, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.
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Christopher Ferry, Ferry Clever, winner of the NW Retailer of the Year award, pictured with the award sponsor Jordan Holmes of JKC, Ceara Ferguson, City Centre Initiative and Anna Doherty Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.