Stirling Business Awards 2025 Winners Shine Bright
Stirling’s vibrant community of independent businesses took center stage at the prestigious 2025 Business Awards ceremony on the 6th of March. Organized by the Go Forth Stirling BID, the event at the iconic Albert Halls brought together local entrepreneurs, visionaries, and innovators to celebrate excellence and achievement across various categories.
Celebrating Success and Dedication
The evening was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Stirling’s business owners, with winners emerging from a pool of over 26,000 public votes. The awards ceremony honored remarkable individuals and exceptional teams who have made significant contributions to the local economy and community.
One of the standout winners was Dr. Murray Cook, a respected archaeologist, who received the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Stirling Award. Dr. Cook’s commitment to preserving and promoting Stirling’s rich history through archaeological digs, guided walks, and educational lectures earned him well-deserved recognition.
Another notable recipient was Professor Leigh Sparks, who was bestowed with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award. As a distinguished figure in the field of Retail Studies at the University of Stirling and Chair of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, Professor Sparks’ impactful contributions to national retail strategies were acknowledged and celebrated.
A Night of Celebration and Recognition
The awards ceremony, hosted by Danielle McRorie-Smith, the project director of Go Forth Stirling BID, was a resounding success. Ms. McRorie-Smith expressed her delight at seeing Dr. Cook and Professor Sparks honored for their invaluable work and research that has positively impacted Stirling’s business community.
Transition Stirling, an environmental charity dedicated to community and sustainability initiatives, was recognized with the Charity of the Year Award. The sponsorship by The Thistles, represented by center director Gary Turnbull, highlighted the importance of supporting organizations that make a meaningful difference in the community.
CodeBase Stirling’s consecutive win of the Business Support Services of the Year Award underscored the organization’s commitment to providing essential support, guidance, and innovation to local businesses. Mike Barclay, director of business support at STEP Scotland, congratulated CodeBase and commended all shortlisted businesses for their resilience and dedication.
Celebrating Excellence Across Diverse Sectors
The awards ceremony also shone a spotlight on other deserving winners, including Europa Music, Fletcher’s, and Erol’s Tailor Shop, who each received accolades for their excellence in retail, dining, and service sectors, respectively. The full list of winners can be found on the Go Forth Stirling BID website, showcasing the breadth of talent and innovation in the local business community.
The event, attended by approximately 150 guests from various sectors, was a night to remember. Central FM DJs and a lively performance by bagpipe pop band The Rollin Drones added to the festive atmosphere, creating a memorable evening of celebration and camaraderie.
Looking Ahead to a Bright Future
As the evening drew to a close, Ms. McRorie-Smith expressed her gratitude to the business owners, employees, sponsors, and supporters who came together to celebrate Stirling’s entrepreneurial spirit and creativity. The success of the 2025 Business Awards reaffirmed the city’s commitment to fostering a thriving independent sector and honoring those who make invaluable contributions to the local economy and community.
In conclusion, the Stirling Business Awards 2025 not only recognized excellence and achievement but also showcased the passion, resilience, and innovation that define Stirling’s diverse and dynamic business landscape. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists for their outstanding contributions, and here’s to continued success and growth in the years to come.
