Local businesses and businesspeople were honored during the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Appreciation Luncheon, held at the Heritage Conference & Event Center in Bassett. Chamber President Lisa Watkins announced the winners.

ActivWall Systems LLC, owned by Duke Ferrell and his son, Carter Ferrell, won Small Business of the Year in Manufacturing/Distribution.

Founded in 2011, the company offers custom moving windows, walls, and doors, Watkins said. During 2020-21 they had an increase of 14.2% in employees and 87.16% in sales volume.

John Compton of Compton’s Machining LLC had stated when he nominated ActivWall that the success in their business allowed his own business, as well as others in the area, to grow, Watkins said. “This father and son care about employee well-being and the community,”she said. “Employees are encouraged to serve and are granted time to attend meetings and volunteer during the workday. “

Acknowledgments: Article and photo by Holly Kozelsky. Click to see full story.