An optometrist and dispensing duo who run Dollond & Aitchison’s Hammersmith and Teddington practices have won a top prize in a business awards contest sponsored by Lloyds TSB Bank.

Optometrist Nilesh Soneji (pictured above left) and DO Jamal Salloum (pictured above right) scooped this year's Lloyds TSB Southern Jewel Awards in the ‘Healthcare & Education’ section in a contest which celebrates the contribution of the achievements of UK Asian businesses.

The pair were chosen from thousands of nominations spanning business, education, politics and the charity sector in a regional area which encompassed South Wales and Southern England.

“The pair today run what is one of D&A’s most profitable outlets in the UK,” said a spokeswoman for the awards.

“They acquired their first store in Hammersmith and along with their dedicated staff, were soon able to build their reputation as a trustworthy and professional optical supplier.  In June 2007, D&A recognised their success and approached them to open another store in Teddington, which within the first year, began to exceed targets by more than 50%.

“They attribute the success of both stores to the continual delivery of superior levels of service to its customers, within a friendly atmosphere. Nilesh and Jamal now have a client base of over 4,000 patients and hope to continue to grow the businesses in the coming years.”

Following the win, Andy Ferguson, chief executive for D&A, said: “We are very proud of Nilesh and Jamal and pleased that their contribution to eyecare has been recognised. They are an inspiration to all our branches and we congratulate them on their outstanding achievement.”

Commenting on the award, Pete Stilliard, head of Asian Markets, Lloyds TSB Commercial says: “For half a century, the Asian community in Britain has been making a huge contribution to all aspects of life, not least the economy.  I would personally like to congratulate Nilesh and Jamal on this outstanding achievement. This accolade is truly testament to their drive and determination and will undoubtedly provide support for all future Asian businesses for generations to come.

“We’re working hard to make sure that the Asian community has all the help and support it needs from us as a bank. Through these awards, we have had the opportunity to honour and celebrate the many achievements that make the community a source of inspiration to us all.”

Now in its sixth year, the event was held on Saturday (October 4) at the London Hilton, Park Lane, and there were seven other categories.

Two other events – the Northern Jewel Awards and the Central Jewel Awards – were held earlier this year, and the Southern Jewel Awards ceremony will be broadcast on STAR TV, the Asian satellite channel, on November 2.

Details of how to enter in future will be available on the Award’s website, www.jewelawards.tv/

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Rita
October 2nd, 2009
What an accomplishment, your families must be very proud.

chandresh padiya
August 15th, 2009
Congratulations.