An Aberdeen independent cupcake shop has been crowned winner of the Best Scottish Baked Goods category at a prestigious business awards ceremony.
Cupcakes by Jo, which was established in 2011 by owner, Jo Gale, has won the title of Best Scottish Baked Goods at the inaugural Scotland’s Business Awards grand final, held in The Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa in Edinburgh.
The cupcake shop, which was recently announced as the winner of the Aberdeen Business Awards, went head to head against four other businesses from across six regions in Scotland to win the title, which was voted for by the public.
Located at 7a Crown Street, a prime city centre location, Jo Gale, decided to open her first shop in November 2014 after receiving huge, continual demand for her cupcake delivery service which she set up in 2011.
Since launching her shop, Jo has baked over 60,000 cupcakes for the people of Aberdeen, offering 20 different flavours daily. She also offers a bespoke service where individuals can customise cupcakes in any way, creating unique cupcakes for birthdays, weddings and corporate events.
Jo Gale, owner of Cupcakes by Jo, said: “I am speechless and can’t quite believe that I have won this award. It is a huge testament to all the hard work I put in, as I bake every single cake myself whilst looking after every aspect of the business too. Due to customer demand, I’ve had to increase my shop opening hours, and I now offer a delivery service again through One Delivery, which my customers are very happy about.
“My mum has been a huge support to me over the years and helps out with the phones and serving my customers on hectic days when I’m busy in the kitchen baking all day.
“I have an incredible, loyal customer base who have also been extremely supportive over the years, and I am truly grateful to everyone who has helped me achieve this amazing accolade. I am so proud of winning this award and taking home the national award for Aberdeen. Baking cupcakes is my passion and love, and to be recognised for this is overwhelming.”
The awards ceremony saw over 400 attendees, with numerous national winners announced on the evening. Hailed the number one Awards website in Scotland, the awards recognise the best in business.