Nigel Hawkin, owner of Recognition Express Wakefield is celebrating five years of business this month and has marked the occasion by planting a young cherry tree on a site close to his premises.

Wakefield born and bred Nigel, who runs Recognition Express with help from sister Michelle, is more than aware that many small business have failed to make it through the recession and is glad to be one of the survivors.

The planting of the tree was significant for Nigel and his team as it represents the green shoots of the economy and Nigel hopes that as the tree grows, so will the country’s economic stability and eventually his business.

Nigel puts his success down to the loyalty of his customers, he said: “my customers are great. I’ve one who came in on my first day of trading and is still buying from me on a regular basis. Times have been hard for everyone but I truly believe that by getting to know my clients and giving them a fast and professional service each and every time I’ve managed to hold on to my business despite the recession.”

Nigel is looking forward to another five years supplying local businesses and associations across the region with branded recognition goods.