INVERCLYDE'S bright business stars shone on stage at Greenock Town Hall last month in a celebration of excellence. 

Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce held the 20th ICON Awards ceremony on September 20. 

Hosted by Gerry McDade, the inspiring event welcomed almost 200 guests as the chamber celebrated local business triumphs and achievements. 

The awards were sponsored by Diodes Incorporated, and 10 companies and one individual received honours on the night. 

(Image: Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce) Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce president Lizzy Todd said: "We are thrilled with the success of this year's ICON Awards which provided a superb platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our local businesses. 

"We witnessed a fantastic response from our sponsors, participating companies, and guests, and were delighted to welcome several new businesses to the chamber."

Members of Inverclyde's business community were joined by dignitaries including minister for employment and investment Tom Arthur, Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Martin McCluskey MP, Stuart McMillan MSP, Inverclyde Council leader Stephen McCabe, and Inverclyde Provost Drew McKenzie on the night. 

(Image: Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce) (Image: Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce) Local DJ and music producer Bruce Glenny, founder of Summer Friends Productions, provided the entertainment. 

A raffle on the night raised an incredible £1,595 for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland, a charity which provides 'transformative' sailing experiences for young people to help develop life skills and build confidence. 

(Image: Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce) (Image: Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce) This year introduced the Rising Star Award which recognises young people under 25 who are excelling in their field. 

Lizzy added: "The introduction of the Rising Star Award was particularly exciting, as it showcases emerging talent that will shape the future of Inverclyde’s business community.

"I'd like to extend my thanks to Jenna Lynn, Corey Beaton, and the entire chamber board for their hard work leading up to and during the event. 

"Their efforts ensured that our guests had a memorable experience and that the ceremony was truly special.

"Special thanks also to Greenock Town Hall and First Choice Catering for their unwavering support in making this event a success."


Full list of winners 
ICON Award for Entrepreneurism (Sponsored by Tweetiepie Media): Downriver Coffee Roasters
ICON Award for Business Growth (Sponsored by Business Gateway Inverclyde): Fairlie Curved
ICON Award for Community Benefits (Sponsored by Golden Casket Group): Diodes Incorporated
ICON Award for Sustainability (Sponsored by AdSmart from Sky): J.G.B Steelcraft (UK) Limited
ICON Award for Business Resilience (Sponsored by Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce): Treasured
ICON Award for Skills Development (Sponsored by James Walker Devol): RIG Arts
ICON Award for Tourism (Sponsored by Tonino’s Pizzeria): Kilmacolm Farm Tours
ICON Award for Health & Wellbeing (Sponsored by Specsavers): Inverclyde Women’s Aid
ICON Award for Diversity (Sponsored by Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce): Ocean Youth Trust Scotland
ICON Award for Internationalism (Sponsored by PG Paper): Safer Group
Rising Star Award (Sponsored by Diodes Incorporated): Shaun Wiseman