Aberdeen charity and matress maker Glencraft win Queen's Award
The mattress makers say they are honoured and believe the recognition is a fitting tribute to late Chairman Duncan Skinner
Aberdeen charity Glencraft, the luxury mattress maker that has supported disadvantaged people for 178 years, has won a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
The award for promoting opportunity through social mobility is a fitting tribute to Glencraft chairman Duncan Skinner, who sadly passed away earlier this month following a year-long battle with cancer.
It was Duncan’s idea to enter the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. He was told the social enterprise he helped to save 11 years ago had been successful a few days before he passed away.
Mr Skinner, along with businessman Bob Keiller – a former CEO at Wood Group – led the fight to save Glencraft in 2010. The charity, which employs people from disadvantaged backgrounds, has since gone from strength to strength, supporting 38 jobs and attracting worldwide admirers.
Graham McWilliam, managing director at Glencraft, said: “Duncan will always hold a special place in everyone’s hearts at Glencraft. He helped to save a social enterprise by ensuring it travelled down a more professional and sustainable path – a strategy for long-term success.
“Only one member of staff found work when the site was closed for a short time in 2009. Duncan recognised the importance of giving people the opportunity to work, regardless of their background.
“It was Duncan’s idea to enter the awards and typical of him to be thinking of others, even at a time of immense personal challenge. His response, when informed of the award win, was to say simply ‘that’s awesome’. He was a special person, defined by integrity.
“We’re thrilled to win this prestigious award – it’s a lasting tribute, not only to Duncan and all that he did for Glencraft but also to everyone at the charity."