A HUSBAND and wife making Huddersfield the hub of a fast-growing retailing empire were named Business Personalities of the Year at last night’s spectacular Examiner Business Awards.
David and Luisa Scacchetti, founders of designer nursery products supplier Mamas & Papas, received the plaudits at the awards presentation held at the Galpharm Stadium.
Jeremy Garside, senior partner at law firm Chadwick Lawrence, main sponsor for the awards, presented the trophy to company representatives Richard Spychalski and Phil Daniels before more than 300 guests at the glittering dinner.
The firm established by David and Luisa has its head office, distribution centre and a showroom at Colnebridge, now has more than 30 stores in the UK and some 1,100 staff.
The company also has a string of outlets in the Middle East and a retail presence in boutiques and department stores in the Far East, Australasia, North America and Europe, Australia, the Far East, North America and Europe.
David and Luisa have not neglected the firm’s Huddersfield headquarters – with initiatives such as a new apprenticeship scheme for local school-leavers to help them launch careers in areas such as design and product development, marketing and communications, graphic design, internet and retailing.
Launching the scheme in September, the company said the work-based NVQ would give candidates the qualifications to launch their careers with the benefit of a regular income of £7,500 a year while they train. They would also work alongside award-winning teams on new projects.
David and Luisa are also enthusiastic organisers of the Midwife of the Year competition, which attracts entrants from across the country – while Mamas & Papas staff have taken part in fundraising events for a wide variety of good causes.
Mr Spychalski said: “It is an honour to accept this award on behalf of David and Luisa. They have put a lot of hard work into this business, as have their daughters Amanda and Olivia.
“Family is important and that has helped shape Mamas and Papas and will continue, with the couple’s first grandchild Marni.”
