WINNERS OF THE 2007 STAR AWARDS
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
sponsored by
HINE OPTICIANS
 Kay & Nick Hine with Kaye Adams, Bill Kowbel of Bank of Scotland and President Mike Beale
A husband and wife opticians team has proved they are the best in the business by winning the prestigious Perthshire Chamber of Commerce 2007 “Business Of The Year” title.
Hine Opticians in George Street, Perth, run by Kay and Nick Hine, secured the “Customer Service” category at last night¹s glittering Business Star Awards ceremony in Crieff, before going on to lift the coveted Bank of Scotland Trophy as the overall winner.
The delighted couple, who launched the Perth optometry and dispensing practice two years ago, were presented with their award by event host TV personality Kaye Adams and Bank of Scotland representative Bill Kowbel.
Over 300 guests from Perthshire¹s business world heard how a “unique and entrepreneurial” approach to the optician¹s profession had helped secure the title in a highly competitive shortlist of top local businesses. Hine prides itself on their dedication to educating customers about eye health and the importance of early detection. Determined to “enlighten not frighten” they take great satisfaction in the high number of customers having eye checks and not needing glasses.
With over 40 years experience between them, Kay and Nick Hine also devote one day per week to ensuring no one misses out on eye care by making home visits to those with disabilities and visiting nursing homes.
Bill Kowbel, Area Director, Bank of Scotland Corporate, said they were delighted to be involved with the Perthshire Chamber Business Star Awards for another year. “The success of the Awards continues to grow year on year, attracting a high calibre of entries and showcasing the wealth of business talent that abounds in Perth,² he said.
“At Bank of Scotland Corporate we know that success in business takes a great deal more than just money. We work hard to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit and business ambitions of our customers often by challenging the Œnorm¹ to look at things differently. “Not only have Hine Opticians won the Customer Service Award this year but have also been successful in impressing the judging panel with their own different approach to business,” added Mr Kowbel.
“Congratulations to all the winners who clearly and unequivocally demonstrate the pursuit of excellence. It is encouraging to see the local community in such great shape.
Castlecroft Securites Ltd. was Highly Commended as runner-up to the overall title.
Other top business titles at last night¹s Business Star Awards went to:
NEW BUSINESS - Katherine's Closet - Children¹s designer clothing, toys and gifts, maternity clothing.
CUSTOMER SERVICE - Hine Opticians - Optometry & dispensing practice.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT - W2 Training Ltd - Design, develop and deliver innovative training for business.
RETAIL - Lorraine Law - Independent retail jeweller.
CREATIVE - Teammania - Corporate training in individual, team development, strategy, management development and corporate events. 
TOURISM & HOSPITALITY - Highland Offroad - 4 star activity centre offroad activity provider, quad biking, professional driver training.
MARKETING - Katherine's Closet - Children¹s designer clothing, toys and gifts, maternity clothing.
BUSINESS IN THE COMMUNITY - Castlecroft Securities Ltd - High quality serviced offices/business centres; industrial units, secure self-storage, events venues
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