Gov. Gary R. Herbert and the Utah Economic Summit partners recognized two outstanding contributors to Utah’s business community. The Larry H. Miller Group received the Company of the Year award, and Gary Heward, president and CEO of Liberty Mountain, was recognized as Individual of the Year.
“These individuals and businesses in our communities contribute to Utah’s vibrant economy and high quality of life,” said Gov. Herbert. “This year’s award recipients built successful companies from humble beginnings and have demonstrated excellence in business and leadership in our communities.”
The Economic Summit Awards recognize leaders in Utah’s business community who have been active for a minimum of 10 years, who have set standards of excellence in their respective industries, and who have made a significant difference in the community.
Heward is a pioneer of Utah’s outdoor industry and leader in the outdoor community. He and his wife Diana purchased Liberty Mountain 20 years ago, relocated the company headquarters and western distribution center to Utah. They have grown the company from 24 employees to 150. Today, Liberty Mountain is one of the largest wholesale distributors of technical outdoor products and climbing gear in the U.S.
“As an active participant of Utah’s outdoor recreation and business community, I’m honored to be recognized by the governor,” said Gary Heward, CEO of Liberty Mountain. “This award recognizes the full Liberty Mountain team and the contributions we’ve made together. Utah’s business environment has helped our company grow and prosper. It’s a privilege to work and live here and give back in whatever way we can.”
The Larry H. Miller Group of Companies began on May 1, 1979 when Larry and Gail purchased their first dealership, Larry H. Miller Toyota, in Murray. Since then, the Larry H. Miller Group has grown to more than 80 businesses and properties operating in 46 states, including 60 auto dealerships, multiple professional sports franchises, retail stores, and movie theatres. The company has built a legacy of giving back to the communities where they do business.
“Utah is a great place to start and grow a business. We have seen first-hand, over the past 38 years, how this state and community rally behind entrepreneurs—large and small,” said Clark Whitworth, CEO of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies. “We are grateful for the award and for all of our employees who strive to make our company the best place in town to work and the best place in town to do business.”
The 11th annual Utah Economic Summit, hosted by Gov. Herbert and featuring a keynote presentation by Arthur Brooks, celebrated and advanced opportunities across industries and communities statewide. Hundreds of business, government, education and community leaders attended.
For videos and for more information about next year’s event, visit UtahEconomicSummit.com.