Sara Davies, founder and creative director of Crafter’s Companion, has been awarded with the Outstanding Contribution Award at the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards.
The awards, which were held at Grosvenor House in London and are in its 18th year, celebrate the best of British business. Sara was one of 16 winners on the night, with other accolades being presented for Exporter of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Employer of the Year and more.
Since launching her business from her university bedroom 14 years ago, Crafter’s Companion has scaled to an employer of 200 staff. The company exports to more than 40 different countries and expects to turn over £44m this year.
Sara said: “To be presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award is such an honour and to share this title with previous winners like Helena Morrissey, who strive for diversity and parity in everything they do, is very humbling.
“I can’t quite believe that it has been 14 years since I started Crafter’s Companion. I was at university and I ended up launching a business from my bedroom. I roped in my best friend’s mum as my first employee, she’s still with us today and we now have 200 staff and a head office in America. It’s completely overwhelming and surreal.
“This award has reminded me of the things I have achieved in a relatively short space of time and is also the incentive I need to make more ambitions and dreams a reality. There are so many brilliant businesses and entrepreneurs in the UK and these awards, that support and celebrate everything that fantastic companies do, are so important. So, I also want to say a huge congratulations to all of the winners.”
“Most people who know me (and have heard me speak!) know that I am from the North East and that I am extremely proud of my region. To have our headquarters remain in the area and to employ so many talented people here fills me with joy. To put the North East on the map with these kinds of awards makes me even happier.”
Richard Alvin, Lloyds Bank National Business Awards Event Director said: “We know that these awards set a powerful benchmark for excellence and entrepreneurship across the country and it’s clear that Sara has used the momentum behind winning the SME award back in 2010 to rocket her journey of success.
“It is only right that nine years on she graces our stage once more in recognition of her continued drive, passion for excellence and inspirational leadership that has seen her boost trade and skills across the country. I could not think of anyone more deserving of this honour.”