The co-founders of Not Just Travel have been named finalists in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Paul Harrison (pictured left) and Steve Witt (right), who also co-founded NJT’s recruitment arm The Travel Franchise, have been selected out of more than 5,300 entrants – the most the awards has had in its 10-year tenure.
At the ceremony on November 21, 12 awards will be given out per region for categories including Entrepreneur for Good, the Great British Entrepreneur of the Year, and, new for this year, the John Caudwell Blaze Your Own Trail Award, which looks to recognise outstanding examples of businesses offering apprenticeships, vocational training, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
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Harrison and Witt have been nominated in the Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year category for the South West region, and will compete against three other entrants.
NJT said it is doubling in size in terms of both sales and staff members this year, while launching several “pioneering initiatives” for the travel industry.
Harrison and Witt said: “During the pandemic, while other travel companies were furloughing staff and pulling down the shutters, we invested in our customer service, corporate team and technology.
“As a result, we managed not just to stay afloat, but to thrive, and our franchise members are enjoying soaring profits. To be recognised for our recent success and current bold plans for expansion as part of this prestigious award is both exciting and gratifying.”
Francesca James, awards founder, said: “The quality of applications is consistently excellent year on year, but we have been especially blown away by the innovation, drive and determination demonstrated this year.
“Shortlisting from so many inspiring contenders has been more challenging than ever, with many deserving cases put forward and an ever-growing business community thriving across the country.
“From the pandemic to the ongoing cost of living crisis, business owners haven’t had it easy over the past few years, but it’s a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of these entrepreneurs that they have continued on their path and refused to give in.
“This year’s finalists should be so proud of what they’ve already achieved both in business and in being shortlisted for an award – we’re looking forward to seeing everyone in the finals and unveiling the winners.”