Sandy based gin distillery Willow Tree Gin has won Gold for the Sustainability Award at the 2022 SME Luton and Bedfordshire Business Awards. 

Flitwick based Teaching Talons, a family-run animal encounters business and mobile zoo, were runners up for the Sustainability Award, winning silver. 

The awards took place at Bedford Corn Exchange on Thursday 22^nd September, with small businesses and sponsors from across Bedfordshire coming together to celebrate successes and network. 

Central Bedfordshire Council and The Green Business Network sponsored the new Sustainability award, with applicants being ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’ in business such as reducing or removing the harmful impacts that products or services have on the environment. 

Councillor Steven Dixon, Executive Member for Sustainability and Transformation, said: “I’m delighted for Willow Tree Gin. Their commitment to running a business sustainability is a testament to their green endeavours and are worthy winners of the Sustainability Award. It’s great to see two Central Bedfordshire based businesses rewarded for their sustainable practices.” 

Eloise Adger, Marketing and Events Manager, said: “Sustainability has been a huge part of our ethos since we started in 2016, so to be recognised for this is truly an honour. For example, we have conserved over a million litres of water, and we donate a portion of our profits to the Forest of Marston Vale to help plant trees.  

“It was fantastic to see so many amazing Bedfordshire businesses being awarded for their triumphs. There are so many small things everyone can do to make for a greener planet.” 

Jane Varley, Green Business Network, said: “A huge congratulations to Willow Tree Gin and Teaching Talons for their Gold and Silver awards. We are delighted for all entries into this year’s Sustainability Award.” 

Willow Tree Distilling Company Ltd have made it through to the SME National Business Awards Final, where they will be up against other local winning businesses from across the country.