Welch the Florist, a fifth-generation family business from Nottingham, has been awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ distinction in the customer excellence category at the 2024 Midlands Family Business Awards, hosted at the Athena in Leicester.
The Midlands Family Business Awards, now in their 12th year, celebrate the achievements of family businesses throughout the UK. The awards ceremony, held on 3rd October, raised funds for the Brain Tumour Charity.
Established in 1920 in Long Eaton, Welch the Florist is one of Nottingham’s longest-standing businesses, known for its commitment to family values. In 1973, Tony Shaw became a director, and his passion for flowers and horticulture brought a new dynamic to the business, combining skill and creativity to deliver exquisite floral arrangements.
The business is now headed by Tony’s son Gareth, who has merged six florists under the Welch brand. Today, Welch is Nottinghamshire’s premier flower delivery service, catering to customers through both Welch and Interflora.
Gareth, reflecting on the award, said: “This is the first time in our 104-year history that we’ve entered an award. Being shortlisted as a finalist came as a complete surprise, and to be highly commended among so many fantastic businesses is truly flattering.”
Charlotte Perkins, Group Managing Director at Wilsons, who organised the awards, said: “The judging panels faced a difficult task in selecting the winners. With so many outstanding entries, several heated debates arose to decide the Winners and Highly Commended in each category. Every business that made it to the finals should be immensely proud of their achievements.”
Gareth added, “Being highly commended recognises the whole team’s dedication to excellence and is a testament to the hard work, passion, and expertise offered by the Welch the Florist team.”
For more about Welch the Florist and their family-run heritage, visit www.welchtheflorist.co.uk.
