Peterborough's Serenity Loves declared 'small business of the decade' at prestigious national awards
An entrepreneur whose Peterborough beauty salon has been named as the ‘small business of the decade’ at a national awards ceremony says the triumph is a much-needed boost at a challenging time.
Jo Bevilacqua’s Serenity Loves salon, in Oundle Road, was declared to be the Small Business of the Decade at the national Small Business Awards, which seeks to celebrate the achievements of the UK’s 5.4 million small businesses.
Judges stated: “To mark The Small Awards' 10th anniversary, this year one exceptional small business took home the surprise 'Small Business of the Decade' award.
"This prestigious title was awarded to our 2018 'Small Business of the Year' winner Serenity Loves, who have transformed the salon experience in Peterborough.”
Following the award success, Jo was invited to a special reception at 11 Downing Street hosted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
Jo, who created Serenity Loves nine years ago with six employees and now employs 17 staff, including six apprentices, said: “The recognition is much needed as owning a small business at the moment feels incredibly tough.
"The last eight years have been about overcoming and surviving issue after issue, Brexit, Covid, energy prices, cost of living, employee NI rises, National minimum wage increases.
She said: “We always try to do our best by our clients, our employees and our community but sometimes it feels impossible.
"We are committed to continue what we do well, which helps when you get external recognition from an amazing panel of judges who see what you do and applaud it.”
The Small Business Awards judges explained that the award celebrated the ability of Serenity Loves to ‘combine premium hair and beauty services with a family-first approach, including an onsite supervised playroom.’
They added: “Serenity Loves is also shaping the future of the industry through its professional training academy, helping aspiring stylists gain qualifications in a thriving salon setting.
"Serenity Loves is truly an inspiring business that is built on accessibility, empowerment, and exceptional customer care.”
Jo said: “To be recognised as Business of the Decade is incredibly special, but what makes me most proud is the impact we've been able to have on people over the last 14 years.
"Whether that's helping someone feel confident after a difficult period in their life, supporting a child with additional needs, helping an apprentice begin their career, or simply being part of our clients' lives, that's what really matters."
Afterwards, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Small businesses are the backbone of Britain’s economy and it’s a privilege to celebrate them at Downing Street.
"I know how important it is to help make conditions better for small businesses to thrive, and with our Small Business Plan we’re helping cut red tape, give access to finance, cut bills and ensure employees have the skills they need.”