A Conwy businessman has won a prestigious global business award.

Gareth Jones, founder of UK Leisure Living, has been named winner of the Outstanding Entrepreneur category at the 2018 Global Business Excellence Awards.
Jones, whose company is based in Conwy and Cheshire, was recognised for his entrepreneurial track record over the last six years.

The judges said:

“Gareth Jones is a serial entrepreneur who never stands still. Since winning the Institute of Directors Young Director of the Year title in 2012 aged only 30, Gareth has set up six businesses in leisure, home improvements and energy conservation; and has a community interest business.

“His latest businesses in renewables, hot tubs and glamping construction show that he is willing to take a risk in up-and-coming areas of business.

“Gareth is an inspirational leader, who loves a challenge and is always ready to take on something new.”

The Global Business Excellence Awards are decided by a large panel of independent expert judges who select winners according to strict criteria for each category and sector. These include financial results, innovation and the benefits for customers, employees, investors and community. The awards attract entries from around the world.
UK Leisure Living is currently experiencing strong growth. The company expects to double revenues this year from £750,000 to over £2million with increased sales at its main hot tub showroom and its recently opened satellite showroom near Chester.

Gareth said:

“I am thrilled to win a Global Business Excellence Award. I have always looked to create opportunities in new and exciting markets whether it is renewables, glamping or, most recently, hot tubs.

“I am passionate about business and about doing things in an innovative way, providing customers with the best possible products and service and employees with the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.”

The business sells to a mix of domestic and commercial customers with commercial clients including Bourne Leisure and the 5 star Plas Coch Holiday Park. It was named Spa Retailer of the Year in 2017 and is also approved by Which? and the Federation of Master Builders.

UK Leisure Living plans to recruit a further six roles across sales, engineering and administration to meet the increased demand, increasing the size of the team to 16. In addition to the recent opening at Gordale Garden Centre near Chester, UK Leisure Living will be launching further showrooms across the North West and Midlands.