We’re lucky to have so many brilliant small businesses operating in the Scottish Borders.
To celebrate just a few of them, I recently held my annual Small Business Awards competition.
Once again, hundreds of nominations flooded in for a whole host of first-class shops and services across the Borders.
The winners this year were from a wider variety of sectors and industries.
But they all shared some similar characteristics and strength. They're key parts of our communities. They have a great team with a fantastic work ethic. And local people think very highly of the customer service they provide.
The winning businesses for 2023 included Kelso's Wonky Giraffe. It's a great local resource for so many people and I was delighted to present the team with their well-deserved certificate to recognise their achievement in bringing people together.
A second Kelso-based business also won this year – The Naked Sourdough. Local people clearly love the amazing bread they make.
Another winner was Fostons Fine Meats in Duns. A lot of nominations praised the quality of their produce.
I also gave an award to Hair by Louise, which is based in Ayton High Street. Their enthusiasm and customer service was noted in lots of submissions.
The Gala-based Borders Podiatry and Performance Clinic was another victor. They provide extraordinary help to treat injuries and pain.
Hawick's Baguette Express was also a winner. It received tonnes of nominations for the work ethic and service of its excellent staff.
Robson Flooring in Tweedbank also won an award. A lot of happy customers have been very impressed with their work.
All of these small businesses are doing excellent work and it's a privilege to recognise what they have achieved. The idea behind these awards is to celebrate great businesses serving our communities and to encourage more people to shop locally in 2023 and beyond.
The weeks around Christmas can be a pivotal time for many small businesses who rely on the support of local people so they can keep providing jobs and playing a vital role in our communities.
When we buy local, everybody benefits. The money is more likely to stay in the local economy, helping to protect jobs and support other small businesses.
In 2024, everywhere across the Borders would benefit hugely if we all made one of our new year's resolutions to spend more locally.
That seems like one resolution we could all keep!
