Gus from Big Art & Banners has been named the winner of this year’s Pets in Print competition, organised by Innotech Digital and Display.
He was chosen from a varied field of entrants that included a bearded dragon and sheep. The judging panel comprised Gail Coles from The Dogs Trust, Carys Evans from Karis Copp Media, Colin Sinclair McDermott of The Online Print Coach, and Jack Gocher and Kathryn Ridout from Eye on Display.
Gus, described as a production assistant at Big Art & Banners, was recognised for his involvement in a range of workplace activities, from monitoring artwork to forklift supervision, while wearing his Pets in Print bandana. The judges said they were particularly struck by his dexterity, versatility and ability to pose for the camera.
“It was Gus’s work ethic that really earned him first prize. His steely determination as he moved from task to task demonstrated his commitment to the business. It looks as though the company couldn’t do without him,” said Jack Gocher.
“He is also extremely cute!” added Carys Evans.
This year’s competition also raised money for The Dogs Trust. Innotech donated £2 for every online order over £150 placed during March, bringing the total raised to £500.
Tony Murgatroyd, regional sales manager for Innotech, presented the trophy to Gus and his colleague Emily. Emily said: “Gus is a real team player at Big Art & Banners, and we are incredibly proud of him. He brings so much love and positivity into the workplace every Thursday, and he doesn’t realise just how valued he is by everyone here.”
“It’s been an honour for him to receive this award. It means a great deal to us, and of course, plenty of treats for Gus,” added Gus’s owner, Donna.
The judges also highlighted several runners-up. Annie & Pippa from Signspeed received the Adorable Duo Award, while 12-year-old Maisie from Synk Creative took the Long Service Award. Oz from Imagink won the Commercial Acumen Award for his presentation of Q1 Treat Allocation, and Jenny from Nuneaton Signs received the Good Service Award for assisting Beth from the sales team, who is registered blind.
Sam Lowe, marketing manager for Innotech, said: “Thank you to everyone who shared their pictures for this year’s Pets in Print competition. It is always so hard to choose the winners because there are so many fantastic entries. As always, the judges have chosen a worthy winner, who joins Juno from Type Creative and Garry from Print.com in our list of Champions.”
