Scottish Thistle Awards winner toasts success with Headline Sponsor

Established in 1900, Fishers Services is the market leader for textile rental, industrial workwear and laundry throughout Scotland and the north of England. The Cupar-based company cleans, irons and delivers more than two million items every week. 

Scott Inglis, Commercial Director at Fishers said: “We have supported the Scottish Thistle Awards for four years and are proud to confirm our commitment as headline sponsor for a second year. At Fishers we don’t just think of ourselves as a laundry company, we know that we are an important part of Scotland’s tourism sector and we’re happy to show our support for other businesses in this important industry for the Scottish economy. The Thistle Awards celebrate all the hard work that goes into making tourism a success in Scotland and there is a great deal for everyone in the sector to be proud of.”

The 2017/2018 Scottish Thistle Awards, in association with Fishers, recognise innovation, excellence and success in the hospitality and tourism industry – rewarding hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions, events and individuals who go that extra mile to provide customers with exceptional service.

This year marks a milestone for the prestigious competition. For the past 25 years, over 350 national winners, including Ms Ryrie, have been crowned at the event, recognising those who have made valuable contributions to the sector.

Speaking after winning the Tourism & Hospitality Hero Award, Jean Ryrie, Head Housekeeper at Jurys Inn, Aberdeen Airport, said: “I am very humbled winning this award as I feel very natural in looking after the customers at all times. I feel it is a big part of my job to respond to the needs and request of the customers and treat them as I would like to be treated.”

Entrants to this year’s awards will be shortlisted by a panel of industry experts and the finalists will go head-to-head at special regional ceremonies in October and November.  Winners will then go on to represent their respective region in the glittering national Scottish Thistle Awards final held next year.

Rebecca Brooks, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel, said: “The Scottish Thistle Awards is a chance to celebrate those who work tirelessly to ensure that all visitors, whether from Scotland or further afield, enjoy a truly memorable experience. Tourism is more than a holiday experience, it creates jobs and sustains communities. I’m delighted that these awards continue to recognise the shining lights within our industry.

“This year marks a very special anniversary for the Scottish Thistle Awards; it is our 25th anniversary. In that time we have recognised the dedication, talent and success of over 350 winners and this year is no exception.”   

The Scottish Thistle Awards is led by a panel of industry experts from several organisations including VisitScotland, Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards, Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards, the Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland, Scotland Food and Drink,  Scottish Tourism Alliance, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, sportscotland and Wild Scotland.

The full 16 regional categories are:

•  Fishers - Most Hospitable Hotel
•  Most Hospitable B&B/Guest House
•  Best Accommodation Provider
•  Historic Environment Scotland – Best Heritage Tourism Experience
•  Innovation in Tourism
•  Best Informal Eating Experience
•  Best Restaurant Experience
•  Best Pub/Bar
•  Regional Ambassador
•  Best Cultural Event or Festival
•  Best Sporting Event
•  Best Outdoor/Adventure Experience
•  HIT Scotland Regional Rising Star
•  Working Together for Tourism
•  ScotRail - Best Visitor Attraction
•  Tourism & Hospitality Hero

This year sees the introduction of a new national category. Nominations can be made for the Best Business Event until Friday 22 September, events will then have until Friday 29 September to enter.