A successful family firm from Worcestershire has been shortlisted for a regional business award in recognition of its growth, customer service and environmental credentials.

Himbleton-based AA Salt, which helps hundreds of businesses keep their premises safe by gritting and snow ploughing their car parks in the winter, has been shortlisted by the Federation of Small Businesses for the trade body’s West Midlands Family Business of the Year award. They will be up against four other family-owned firms.

Formed in 2002, the winter maintenance business is led by 24-year-old Ben Tanner, alongside his mum Nikki Rogers, and her husband, Mark. Over the past 18 years the business has grown to count over 400 customers with 27 full-time and seasonal employees.

News of AA Salt’s shortlisting comes just six months since the firm was voted the area’s best family business by the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Tanner said:

“To be shortlisted for this award just under a year since winning our first ever recognition is fantastic news.

“The effort and commitment it needs to run a family business is huge and every day we try to give our customers the best service possible, while also being aware of the environment and how we can make the business as sustainable as possible. That focus has paid off and helped us grow our number of customers across the public and private sectors.

“Just to be shortlisted for such a prestigious award is another proud moment for us and we would love to go all the way to the national finals in London later this year. It is recognition that everyone at AA Salt is pulling in the right direction.”

The company’s customers include medical surgeries, hospitals, universities, retail parks, schools, office complexes, supermarkets and sporting arenas. They have become known in recent years for their environmental awareness and sustainability approach, which includes using only non-toxic white marine salt and ensuring their supply chain is as efficient and as environmentally-friendly as possible.

The awards dinner will take place in March near Solihull. Winners from the 12 categories will go on to represent the region in the national finals in London later this year.

AA Salt won plaudits two years ago for how it kept businesses running after the ‘beast from the east’ hit Worcestershire, with snow disrupting the county for four weeks. With its fleet of 12 vehicles working up to 24 hours every day, the team spread nearly 1,000 tonnes of salt onto car parks and roads to keep the county moving.

For more information readers can visit www.aasalt.co.uk