Lothian named Large Business of the Year at Chamber of Commerce Awards

Lothian was named ‘Large Business of the Year’ at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards on Thursday.

The award, which was open to all Edinburgh businesses that employ over 100 people, celebrates the strong performance of Lothian in the city over the last 12 months.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director at Lothian said: “I am absolutely delighted that Lothian has been recognised as the Large Business of the Year at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

“To be recognised in this way by the Edinburgh business community is testament to the hard work and devotion of our 2,600+ strong workforce who deliver for our customers every day across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“From our colleagues on the frontline to those who work behind the scenes, Lothian is built on its people. This award is for them, and I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to each and every one of them for their continued loyalty and dedication to Lothian.”

Throughout 2024, Lothian delivered reliable and accessible public transport across Edinburgh and the Lothians for 116 million customers, representing an increase of 5% on 2023. The company also scooped the award for UK Bus Operator of the Year at the National Transport Awards in London last October.

The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce judging panel commented: “The winner has shown an outstanding commitment to both its people and business growth, playing a vital role in the communities it serves.

“Their dedication to employee engagement has been nationally acknowledged, reflecting a strong and positive workplace culture.

“Innovation has also been at the heart of their success, with continuous improvements in digital services and a strong focus on sustainability. Their investment in maintaining an award winning, world-class, future-focused offering truly sets them apart.”

In addition, the business trained over 450 drivers at their dedicated training school with a pass rate of 94.6%, compared to the industry average of 61.5%. At the UK Bus Driver of the Year Finals in Blackpool, Lothian was a delighted that one of its drivers, Thomas Gilhooley, won first place.