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The Managing Director of Flame Heating Spares, North East Heating & Plumbing merchant, has been recognised nationally for business success and entrepreneurship.
John Savage was named BQ National Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year at an awards ceremony in Newcastle, competing against 12 other entrepreneurs from across the UK. He was also presented with the North East Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award at the ceremony.
Flame Heating Spares has enjoyed year-on-year growth since its formation in 2011, culminating in a record £6.4m turnover in 2016, which is expected to double in the next financial year.
It operates seven branches in the North East and will continue its expansion throughout the region with further branch openings, with the aim of launching 20 by 2020. Flame also announced its intention to launch branches in Scotland, as part of its ambitious growth plans, as well as double its current workforce to more than 50 employees over the next three years.
This latest success follows Savage’s Institute of Directors (IoD) North East Entrepreneur of the Year and Entrepreneurs’ Forum’s 2016 Emerging Talent awards.
Savage said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been recognised in the business community and on a national scale, which came as a complete surprise. I wasn’t expecting to win one, let alone two awards, so I am very proud and would like to thank everyone who has supported me and Flame.
“I would never have thought Flame would be in such a strong position this quickly, and I am now focussed on achieving further growth and increasing our geographical reach throughout the North and Scotland. The future is incredibly bright for the company and I am enjoying every moment.”
The BQ National Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year 2017 awards took place at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead.
