Small Business champion recognised by City of Aberdeen

Andy Willox OBE has been recognised for his services to the small business community in Aberdeen by an event hosted by the Lord Provost Barney Crockett.

The Civic reception, held in Aberdeen Town House brought together, friends, family and colleagues of Mr Willox to celebrate his 16 years as Scottish Policy Convener for Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and over a quarter of a century of activism in the City and wider North East Area.

Mr Willox, who started his business Goldstar Cleaning Services nearly 40 years ago after leaving his position as a welfare officer at the Ministry of Defence, now employs over 150 employees from all over the world from his Torry based headquarters.

Lord Provost Barney Crockett said: “Andy and I have worked together since 1995 when we were both members of Grampian Enterprise and Scottish Enterprise Grampian. He would always give very straight forward views and we’ve both continued to work for the City of Aberdeen, in very different ways, over time.

“Andy has made a huge contribution to the City and wider North East through the FSB and his own business, Goldstar Cleaning Services. It is therefore appropriate to mark his retirement from his national role with a Civic reception.  

“I’d like to wish him all the best for the future but I know through his work as a Burgesses, a civic position where members are admitted on the strength of their character, professional reputation and involvement in the civic life of Aberdeen, he will never stop promoting the City and championing small businesses.”

Andy Willox said: “I’d like to thank the Lord Provost for hosting this special event. I’ve known the Lord Provost for many years and it’s fair to say we’ve not always agreed on everything, but we are both passionate about our City. Aberdeen is changing and I’m proud to have played a part in that positive transformation. However, there are still things to be done and I will always continue to support and champion small businesses both here in Aberdeen and further afield.

“I now look forward to spending more time with my family and wife Jackie, whilst continuing to play an active role with Scott and Rachel in the family business, Goldstar Cleaning Services.”