Three “world-class” businesses have been celebrated “not only for their excellence but also their investment, innovation and ambition.”
Burnley Council presented the awards to local businesses that have reached significant milestones and made lasting contributions to the borough.
The Business Excellence in Burnley Awards are presented to winners during surprise visits from the Council’s chief executive, Lukman Patel, director of economy and growth, Kate Ingram, and executive member for economy and growth, Councillor Lubna Khan.
Mr Patel said: “The Business Excellence in Burnley Awards truly live up to their name, recognising not only excellence but also investment, innovation, and ambition.
“We have world-class businesses in our borough, and it’s important to give them the recognition they deserve.”
Althams Travel Services has been in business for 150 years and has continued to adapt from its beginnings as a tea wholesaler to become a major travel service provider.
A spokesperson from Althams said: “We are truly thrilled to receive this prestigious award, which reflects the dedication and commitment of our incredible staff, both past and present, who have consistently provided exceptional service to our valued customers in Burnley.
“Our roots are deeply embedded in Burnley’s history, and we look forward to serving the local community for many more years ahead.
"Thank you to all our past and future customers, as well as Burnley Council, for this very special recognition. Here’s to the next 150 years!”
Donald Race and Newton Solicitors has also been in business for 100 years and has provided legal services in Burnley.
“Having been founded in Burnley in 1924 by Donald Race, we remain as committed now, as he was at the start, to providing excellent, cost-effective legal services to the people of Burnley and the wider area.”
“As a full-service law firm with a long-term presence in the town centre, we are extremely proud of our roots and enthusiastic to remain an integral part of the local community.
“We are thankful for and very much appreciate the relationships that we have forged over the last century, including with individuals and their families and the wider business community, many of which span a number of generations.”
Finally, Cherrytree Bakery marked its 40th year in business this year, having begun with a unique processing technology to make a Chorley Cake.
Through continuous investment, Cherrytree evolved into a market-leading supplier for coffee shops, retail and the food service industry.
It now produces more than 40 million sweet treats annually.
Gary Entwistle, executive chair at Cherrytree Bakery, said: “I was certainly taken by surprise.
"I thought I was facilitating a visit of interest from Burnley Council & Economic Development.
“Nevertheless, it was an honour to receive recognition for 40 years in business, a journey that has had inevitable challenges, but one in which so much has been achieved and realised.”
Cllr Lubna Khan added: “It has been a privilege to celebrate these remarkable businesses.
"Althams, DRN, and Cherrytree Bakery have shown what can be achieved through dedication and innovation.
“Their contributions to Burnley are invaluable, and we are proud to recognise their achievements.”
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