The One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce and BankFive are pleased to recognize the significant contributions and achievements of the region’s businesses with the presentation of the 2016 New Bedford Area Business of the Year Awards in the categories of Small Business, Large Business and Non-profit/Educational Institution. The award was presented in June at a special edition of the Chamber’s Good Morning SouthCoast! business series.
This year’s Small Business of the Year Award was presented to The Pasta House. Located in Fairhaven, The Pasta House, which was established in 2001 and employs about 45 is well-known for their high quality food, beverages and service. The Pasta House cultivates a sense of community making every guest feel at home and that they matter. In an industry that is known for high staff turnover rate, The Pasta House is remarkable in that most staff tend to stay with the restaurant. They offer a range of positions and prepare their employees for success both in business and life. During the recession the Pasta House had to cope with rising cost of goods and utilities without passing those costs onto the customer. They focused on volume sales and was able to grow the catering business during this time.
The other 9 businesses nominated for this year’s award were: SERVPRO, Flour Girls Baking Company, Quahog Republic Whalers’ Tavern, Celia’s Boutique, SEASTREAK, Hope Yoga Studio/LA Cycle Studio, Doctors Express, Fairfield Inn & Suites, WayPoint Event Center and Waring-Sullivan Homes of Memorial Tribute and Rock Funeral Home
This year’s Large Business of the Year award was presented to Horacio’s Inc. Located in New Bedford, Horacio’s Inc. is a leading fabricator of stainless steel products for a wide variety of industries using innovative technology and traditional tools. Horacio’s is a second generation family business that employs 65, mostly SouthCoast residents and many who have been with the company over 20 years. Horacio’s has responded to economic changes by diversifying service in other areas including millwork and stone fabrication, providing a one stop location for their customers. They continue to grow by adding new clients, growing their service territory and adding new jobs.
The other 4 businesses nominated for this year’s award were: AHEAD, Acushnet Company, US Drywall Inc and CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
This year’s Non-Profit of the Year was presented to the New Bedford YMCA. The YMCA of New Bedford is dedicated to serving the mission of the organization to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established in 1867 and with a staff of 90 the New Bedford YMCA is making an impact on the community through its various programs that support youth development and healthy living. The YMCA works to ensure everyone regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
The other 8 non-profit/educational institutions nominated for this year’s award were: UMASS Charlton College of Business, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, Devin Laubi Foundation, Child and Family Services, Better Community Living, Rail to Boston Coalition, Interise and New Bedford Art Museum/Artworks!
Nominations were solicited from the community and reviewed by a selection committee comprised of members. The selection committee looked for companies who have balanced success with a strong commitment to the community. Each nominee was rated based on five criteria: number of employees, staying power, growth, social responsibility and innovation. To meet just a few of these goals is a significant accomplishment.
The One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce extends its appreciation to BankFive for being a partner in this important program. Their commitment as the founding sponsor of the “Business of the Year Awards” program reflects their dedication to our community and their commitment to providing services to small businesses. The Chamber would also like to thank those individuals who submitted nominations for the awards.