Winners have been announced for the inaugural Heart of the High Street Awards hosted by Aberdeenshire Council.
The new awards scheme has shone a spotlight on the people, teams and businesses which go above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service and make the region’s town centres vibrant, welcoming and successful.
An awards ceremony was held in the Holiday Inn, Westhill on Tuesday (Sept 22) co-hosted by Provost of Aberdeenshire Judy Whyte and award-winning food and drink journalist Julia Bryce.
The standard of entries was exceptionally high, with judges praising the innovation, dedication and customer focus demonstrated across businesses of all sizes. Winners were selected for consistently exceeding customer expectations, making significant contributions to their communities and helping create thriving town centres across Aberdeenshire.
Generously supported by sponsorship from local businesses and organisations, the campaign combined a town centre awards programme with a business support initiative focused on enhancing customer experience.
Following nominations from customers and businesses, an independent judging panel made up of representatives from the business community and Aberdeenshire Council selected finalists across eight categories. The winners were follows – with a supporting line on why they were nominated:
Retail – Making every customer count: J G Dossett Butchers, Kintore
“The staff always make you so welcome and nothing is too much trouble. They will make up fresh items for you, carry your shopping to your car and even deliver to the community. Everyone always has a smile on their faces even when it’s the run up to Christmas and I’m sure they’re running on empty as they work crazy hours to make sure everyone gets their order. I always leave the shop with a smile on my face as they are so cheery and friendly.”
Hospitality – The warm welcome: Casa Luisa, Stonehaven
“Combined with the exceptional quality of the food, the vibrant tapas menu, and the amazing atmosphere and vibe of this fantastic new restaurant, Casa Louisa has quickly become a standout addition to Stonehaven this year. Sergio’s dedication to creating an unforgettable dining experience is truly outstanding and deserves recognition.”
Service – The extra mile: Tarland Post Office and Toyshop, Tarland
“I would like to nominate Tarland Toy Shop and Post Office in recognition of the exceptional contribution it makes not only as a business, but as a vital part of the heart of the local community. In an era where many rural communities are losing essential services and independent shops are increasingly under pressure, Tarland Toy Shop and Post Office stands out as an example of what outstanding customer service, community spirit and genuine care for people should look like.”
Leisure – The experience makers: Number 30, Huntly
“Since opening, Number 30 has quickly established itself as a place where people can connect, learn, work, create and enjoy themselves. It has brought new life and confidence to the town centre while remaining focused on community benefit rather than profit.”
Health & Wellbeing – Supporting health and happiness: Elevate Health Chiropractic and Wellbeing, Stonehaven
“Tom is an experienced chiropractor with qualifications in sonography and an interest in nutrition and general healthy lifestyle. This is evident in his attitude and demeanour with patients. He consistently gives his best diagnosis, treatment and advice. He is willing to spend as much time and effort for the best possible results for his patients. There is no short measure - every patient is important.”
Loves Local Ambassador: The Black Faced Sheep, Aboyne
“The Black Faced Sheep contributes to thriving local communities by championing local producers, artists and charitable causes. Scottish produce is prioritised across both the menu and retail larder, supporting suppliers within the region and reducing food miles through consolidated deliveries. From poached and smoked salmon to locally sourced soups and dishes, quality and provenance are key.”
Outstanding Individual: Anne Lyne, Rhynie Post Office
“Anne not only keeps our wonderful village shop well stocked (even when she had to dig herself out during the last heavy snow so that she could get to the nearest town to get basics for her customers when her usual delivery didn't turn up because of said snow) but she also looks out for the people in her community, checking on elderly people, delivering their shopping when needed, ensuring their paths are clear during winter so that they can get about safely.”
New Business: But n Ben Books, Stonehaven
“Since opening, But n' Ben Books has quickly become an important part of the town. Jane has built a space where people can not only discover and enjoy books but also connect with one another. Whether through conversations in the shop, events for children, book groups, or involvement in local festivals and community activities, Jane consistently goes above and beyond to make people feel valued and included.”
Provost of Aberdeenshire Judy Whyte said: “The Heart of the High Street Awards have given us a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the businesses, organisations and individuals who make Aberdeenshire's towns such vibrant and welcoming places. The stories behind this year's winners were truly inspiring and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to customer service, community spirit and excellence in everything they do.
“From independent retailers and hospitality providers to health and wellbeing services and community champions, each winner has shown how businesses can make a real difference to people's everyday lives. They are not only successful in their own right but are helping to strengthen our town centres, support local economies and foster a sense of belonging within their communities.
“Congratulations to all our winners, finalists and nominees. Being recognised among such a strong field is a tremendous achievement and I hope these awards encourage even more businesses to continue delivering the outstanding service and experiences that make Aberdeenshire's high streets so special."
Cllr Alan Turner, chair of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, added: “All our finalists represent the very best of Aberdeenshire's high streets. What stood out to the judges was not simply the quality of the products, services and experiences on offer, but the genuine passion, care and dedication shown to customers and communities every single day.
“Whether it was the exceptional service provided by J G Dossett Butchers, the warm hospitality of Casa Luisa, the trusted support offered by Tarland Post Office and Toyshop, or the community leadership demonstrated by The Black Faced Sheep and Anne Lyne, every winner has set a benchmark for excellence. They have shown that outstanding customer service remains one of the most powerful ways to attract people into our town centres and create loyal, lasting relationships.
“These businesses and individuals are helping to shape thriving, resilient communities across Aberdeenshire. They are ambassadors for the value of shopping locally and a reminder that the personal connections found on our high streets remain one of their greatest strengths. I would like to congratulate every winner and thank all those who took part in making the Heart of the High Street Awards such a success.”