Holywood Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Spectator Newspapers, has announced the recipient of its prestigious inaugural President’s Award for Best Family Business: Hannah’s Florist. Established in 1969 by Hannah Waite, “Hannah’s” has stood as a cornerstone in the Holywood community for over 55 years. Spanning four generations, this thriving business is famed for its exceptional floral arrangements, vast array of plants hardware and gifts.
The roots of this much-loved family business trace back to Hannah’s father, Ted, who originally operated a fruit shop ‘Teds Fruit & Flower Shop’ in the very location where Hannah’s Florist now stands. Inspired by her father’s entrepreneurial spirit, and with his encouragement, Hannah purchased the adjacent shop and founded what would become Hannah’s Florist. With her mother, Kate’s help, who seamlessly helped operations in both shops, the business flourished.
Today the thriving business is run by Hannah’s son Leslie and her grandson Richard. For four generations the business has upheld its legacy of excellence and dedication to serving the local community.
Holywood Chamber is delighted to recognise their unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions to the Holywood business economy. Susi Diesel, President of Holywood Chamber said: “We are so delighted to award the first ever Holywood Chamber President’s Awards to the very deserving Hannah’s Florist. This business exemplifies all that Holywood is. It is independently owned, has four generations of heritage behind it, and the staff are warm, friendly and willing to go the extra mile. The family are very active and involved in the local community and the colour and beautiful presentation of the shop adds so much to our High Street.
Susi concluded: “Huge well done to Richard, his father Leslie and all the generations who worked so hard in the past to make this business what it is today.”
Speaking at his surprise and delight at winning the Best Family Business Award, Richard Waite said. “We are absolutely blown away by this and over the moon to be the first recipients of the Holywood Chamber’s President’s Award.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication that has been ingrained in our family business for generations.
“I began helping my dad in the shop when I was four years old. I have grown up learning the trade and getting to know our loyal customers and suppliers along the way. As the years went on and the business grew, and my granny retired, we expanded Hannah’s to cover both units, to the size it is today. Out the back into the courtyard, my dad, Leslie put on the glasshouse. Over the years we have expanded into hardware and plants and seeds. Today we employ 5 staff and are so proud to carry on the tradition of providing the products and services to the Holywood community. A huge thanks from all the Hannah’s family for this award. So unexpected, but so much appreciated.”
In addition to celebrating this milestone achievement, the Holywood Chamber is excited to announce the opening of nominations for the next award category: Best Service-Based Business. Businesses in Holywood are encouraged to submit their entries via the Holywood Chamber’s official website at www.holywoodchamber.com. Deadline for submissions is Thursday 6th June 2024. To enter, you must have a business address in Holywood, County Down.
Photo caption: Fourth generation, Richard Waite is pictured receiving the Best Family Business award with Susi Diesel, Holywood Chamber President.
1987 picture caption: Pictured (L-R) is Leslie Waite (senior) beside his wife Hannah Granny Kate (in cerise pink) Mayor of North Down and Leslie Waite.
Month 2: Best Service Based Business (May/June) – DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES is Thursday 6th June 2024 at MIDNIGHT
– Criteria for selecting the winner of the Best Service Based Business award will include factors such as customer reviews and testimonials, staff expertise and professionalism, range of services offered, quality of facilities and equipment, and overall customer satisfaction ratings.