On Thursday 20th of April, Fleet Factors had the privilege of attending the inaugural Tees Business Awards. The Tees region’s most influential business awards launched in 2023 as a prestigious celebration of enterprises and entrepreneurs across Teesside and the Tees Valley. The Tees Business Awards were organised by Tees Business in association with headline sponsors PD Ports.
With 11 award categories up for grabs, covering both businesses and individuals from all industries and sectors, and of all sizes, Fleet Factors set its sights high with the most prestigious one of all - Teesside Business of the Year 2023.
Much to our delight, Fleet Factors was shortlisted for the award, along with worthy competitors Cleveland Containers and Vistech.
10 members of staff had the opportunity to attend the event which was black-tie and included a sit-down meal. Hosted by Pam Royle DL and Peter Barron MBE DL, the event featured emotion-packed speeches by Tees Business non-executive director Bob Cuffe and globally renowned Teesside artist Mackenzie Thorpe. All four are patrons of the North East Autism Society, which was the chosen charity for the night.
With the Business of the Year category being the highlight of the awards, it was kept until last. We sat patiently watching category after category be announced. It was a privilege to be in a room with so many talented and successful people and businesses from Teesside.
Finally, PD Ports’ Kirsten Donkin, sponsor of the main award, dramatically carried the award into the room under a spotlight and it was announced. Teesside Business of the Year 2023 goes to... Fleet Factors!
Overwhelmed with emotion all 10 Fleet delegates stood up and cheered and Financial Director Katrina McManus gave her emotive speech stating:
James McCulloch, Sales Director was also interviewed stating:We were established in Teesside in 1975 – it’s our home, so it’s a massive thing for us. We’re known nationally now, but our home is Teesside.
The atmosphere has been electric – fantastic. Everyone has been superb, every business has appreciated everyone’s skill sets and for us to take the top award is absolutely superb – beyond belief.
It is a huge honour to be the inaugural winner of such a prestigious award. The award is a true testament to our hard-working staff, supportive suppliers and loyal customers.
We would like to wish a big thank you to everyone involved! Including PD Ports for presenting the award, and Tees Business for a wonderful evening.
