On Friday 10 July 2015, over 300 family business guests descended upon Shakespeare’s Globe in London for the sixth annual Red Ribbon Awards – celebrating the achievements of Britain’s finest family-run businesses.

After months of searching, interviewing and filming, 11 family firms were crowned the winners of the UK’s most prestigious family business accolade. With over 3 million family firms in the UK as well as hundreds of entries for the Awards, the winners had to be exceptional.

Rami Ranger MBE, Chairman of Sun Mark was crowned winner of the Corbett Keeling ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award. The judges commented, “As a young man Rami came to England to pursue a dream and in his single lifetime has risen to become one of the most inspiring and respected business leaders the UK has ever seen. Not only did he have the vision to see opportunities that other people missed, he worked harder than other people were willing to and fought hard for his place in British business society. On top of this, he has gone on to become a political reformist, a generous philanthropist and someone who is passionate that everyone in life, no matter their race or background, should have a chance to make a contribution. Add to this his decoration from Buckingham Palace and an unprecedented five consecutive Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and it’s not hard to see why Rami Ranger deserves to win the ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award.” Rami was abroad and his award was collected on his behalf by his daughter, Reena.

Hosted by the Family Business Place, and now in their sixth year, the awards seek to recognise and honour some of the most exciting, innovative and longstanding family businesses around the UK. From 200 year old cheese makers in Yorkshire to second generation perfumers in London and sibling start-ups in Devon, the awards have become one of the most sough-after accolades in business.

Amalia Brightley-Gillott, Director of Family Business Place says, “Family businesses are the lifeblood of the British economy and the beating heart of our local communities, employing 1 in 3 people. Despite their impressive contribution, they are often modest and shy about publicising their achievements and so we founded the Red Ribbon Awards. This year’s winners are a treasure trove of incredible companies who all excel in their field and are true beacons of British commerce.”