17 November 2016
Two previous VIBES winners have gone on to achieve tremendous success on the European stage at the 2016 European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) in Estonia.
CMS Window Systems in Cumbernauld was presented the Management (medium and large) Award at the ceremony held at the historic Seaplane Harbour in Tallinn, Estonia, on October 27. The leading window, door and curtain walling designer, manufacturer and installer has excelled in the face of tough competition, proving its credentials as one of the most sustainable businesses in Europe.
Perthshire hostel, Jessie Mac’s was runner-up in the Management (small and micro) category, proving that businesses of any size can be sustainable. Both businesses were shortlisted for EBAEs following their success at the Vision in Business for the Environment of Scotland (VIBES) Awards.
The European Business Awards for the Environment are awarded by the European Commission every two years and aim to recognise and reward European companies which set an example by successfully bringing together innovation, economic viability, environmental considerations and social equity.
The UK had one of the highest numbers of finalists reaching the EBAE Awards with six Scottish businesses nominated following their success at VIBES. Three of the finalists were recognised at the awards ceremony. The other runner up from the UK was Cafeology, an ethical beverage provider.
Andy Kerr, Managing Director at CMS, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been named a winner at the EBAE Awards. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone in the team, and the commitment they’ve shown to helping put sustainability at the forefront of everything we do.
“Environmental and sustainability issues are central to CMS’s business strategy. As the business landscape evolves, it’s great to have the opportunity to show the European business community how sustainability is a help, not a hindrance, to success.
“Our focus on environmental, economic and social sustainability has had a very positive effect on our long-term business success and our ability to service clients effectively – we hope that our EBAE Award win allows us to set an example for other businesses to follow.”
Brenda Roddy, owner of Jessie Mac’s, said; "We're completely blown away at getting through to the finals of EBAE. When you walk around our business you probably wouldn't think that we're particularly green, but that's because it's built in.
“Our thinking is that it doesn't matter what size of business you've got; the same principles can still apply. We should tackle our energy, waste and chemicals just like the big companies do. It clearly saves us money so it's just good business sense."
Gillian Bruce, chair of the VIBES Awards, commented: “Congratulations to CMS Window Systems and Jessie Mac’s on their fantastic achievements at this year’s EBAE Awards. To have two VIBES winners represent Scotland on the European stage was tremendous and is a real testament to their hard work and commitment to Scotland’s sustainability.”
UK entrants to the EBAE Awards are selected from the winners and runners up of RSA Accredited award schemes, and VIBES is the only Scottish based RSA Accredited award scheme. By selecting UK finalists in the EBAE Awards from the winners and runners up of RSA Accredited award schemes, it means that those chosen for Europe are ‘the best of the best’; the most far-sighted, responsible and innovative companies from across the country.
For further details about the awards visit: