Maddy Alexander-Grout from Andover has been announced as the winner of the Mpower National Business Award for Community for her local business, My VIP Card.
Demonstrating her talent for juggling family life and running a business, Maddy has overcome personal difficulties to build a successful business that supports and benefits the local community.
After suffering from postnatal anxiety following the birth of her son, Maddy wanted to help local parents in a similar situation to get out and make new friends whilst saving money. She started to organise discounted events and that’s when the idea for My VIP Card began.
“I had a really strong desire to help local small businesses succeed and this seemed like the perfect idea,” Maddy said. “I started planning in July 2017 and by September had over 50 businesses to promote.
“The card was launched in Andover in June.
“Since launching the card, over 400 local businesses have signed up and there are over 800 card holders.
“I was shaking when I went up to receive my award, and I honestly am still shocked now. It is the best feeling to be rewarded for something that I have worked so hard to make work whilst looking after everyone I work with.”
Sponsor of the Community award, Emily Thorpe from Happy Working Mum, said, “I was absolutely thrilled that Maddy was our overall winner. The concept and practical application of My VIP Card is centred entirely on supporting and benefiting the Community.
“Maddy truly embraces the ‘Mpower Way’ running a heart-centred business that helps mums in the area, supports spending in local shops and works for herself and her family.
“I am confident that My VIP Card will go from strength to strength with Maddy at the helm. I look forward to following her success.”
My VIP Card holders get over 400 Hampshire based discounts and over 2,500 national benefits such a coffee shops, holidays, restaurants, days out, business services, cinemas and shops
In June 2018, My VIP Card was also launched as an affordable employee benefit scheme, that helps employees to shop local. Meaning local Hampshire companies can help support the local economy whilst rewarding , retaining and engaging their staff.
“I am dedicated to helping local businesses and supporting the local economy,” Maddy said. “My next project is helping to raise money for schools, and there are some exciting things to come for My VIP Card, so please watch this space.”
