Insider Media Limited

Birmingham-based Mama Designs has been revealed as one of five winners at the first Virtual Business Awards. The company, which developed the Mamascarf breastfeeding item, was recognised as having used remote technologies to operate virtually.

For the purpose of the awards, a virtual businesses is defined as “one in which the entirety or majority of the human interaction is not conducted in person, but remotely using technology”.

The inaugural Virtual Business Awards was established by online retailer PeoplePerHour.com.

Mama Designs is the company behind the Mamascarf, a breastfeeding scarf invented by Birmingham-based entrepreneur Keira O’Mara. O’Mara exports her products to destinations such as the United Arab Emirates and Chile, through her website.

O’Mara said: “To be recognized as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking and innovative companies is hugely satisfying. Technology is enabling companies to thrive regardless of their geography. It feels fantastic to be at the forefront of this revolution.”

The Virtual business judging panel was led by PeoplePerHour.com founder and chief executive officer Xenios Thrasyvoulou.

He said: “Mama Designs is a great example of how the internet is enabling startups to keep costs low, operate virtually and grow rapidly,” said Thrasyvoulou.

“Mama Designs’ successful international expansion shows what virtual businesses can achieve on short timescales. It’s a very deserving winner.”