THE owner of an expanding windows business is hoping to be recognised for her achievements in turning the firm around from administration.

York Millennium Window Centre, which manufactures and installs UPVc windows, doors and conservatories, has been profitable since Dianne Verity and her husband bought it out of administration in August 2009.

The couple, who both also hold down full-time jobs, are hoping their hard work will be recognised as they enter the Small Business Of The Year category in The Press Business Awards 2011, and Dianne is also going for the Women In Enterprise award.

She said: “We were confident the business was sound, but needed a cash injection and good working practices implementing.”

After buying the firm, they retained all six existing staff and were trading again with one week. The company has since relocated to York Business Park, halving its rent, rebranded and now employs nine staff. Dianne, who is also head of customer service for Harrogate-based Engage Mutual Assurance, has helped the business weather the recession by making it more customer-friendly.

She said: “When we bought the business a large percentage of the work came from trade customers as the previous owner had not developed the domestic market.

“In February 2010, we were seeing good results from the domestic customers so we decided to expand in this area by bringing in another fitter and fitting van. This coincided with a downturn in the trade business, so this helped us to ride out the early part of the recession.”

The business boosted its customers’ confidence by gaining membership of the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsmen Scheme, which has a rigorous vetting procedure, with 67 per cent of companies that apply failing to be approved.

It has also had its windows accredited with energy ratings, meeting A-rated standard on its standard windows.

The business is now hoping to expand into Harrogate and has recently increased its team with a dedicated surveyor and apprentice fitter to help meet clients’ expectations.

Dianne said: “Overall our aim is to be the provider of choice for double glazing, doors and conservatories in York and surrounding areas, and grow the business on recommendation and excellent customer service.”