Johnny’s Bar-B-Q has been named Small Business of the Year (11-50 employees category) by the partnership of the Business Council of Alabama and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama.

The Cullman institution was recognized Tuesday, Nov. 19, during the partnership’s annual meeting at The Club in Birmingham. Johnny’s Bar-B-Q was one of 40 finalists celebrated for their impact throughout the state and local communities. Good Hope Medical was a finalist for the award.

Johnny’s has been serving barbecue to its loyal customers for more than 60 years. Founded by Johnny Graves, the restaurant was sold in 1963 to Troy and Aleata Wiggins, who continued the legacy of flavorful BBQ. Under their ownership, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q grew into a regional favorite, known for its great food and warm hospitality.

In 1976, the Wiggins family moved the restaurant to its current location, expanding to accommodate more customers. Their son, Gary Wiggins, who had worked part-time while studying accounting, joined the business full-time in 1981. After Troy’s retirement in 1983 due to health issues, Gary partnered with Ronald Dunn, his first cousin, to continue the family tradition.

Now in its third generation, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q is managed by Gary’s son, Josh Wiggins, who took the reins in 2006.

“Johnny’s was proud to be nominated along with Good Hope Medical for these awards. We are very humbled and honored to have actually won our category,” Josh Wiggins said in a statement to The Times.

A statement from the partnership said, “Throughout the years, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q has maintained its reputation for exceptional food and service, earning a loyal customer base that extends beyond Cullman to visitors across the country.”

“BCA is dedicated to supporting businesses of all sizes, but we recognize that small businesses play a vital role in shaping the fabric of Alabama. Their contributions not only drive our economy but also foster community spirit and connection,” BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan said. “The Alabama Small Business of the Year Awards celebrate the incredible impact these businesses have, showcasing their resilience, passion, and commitment to their communities. Local businesses are the backbone of Alabama, and they truly deserve recognition and celebration every day.”

Local chambers of commerce across the state submitted nominations for the Alabama Small Business of the Year Awards. The finalists were evaluated by a panel of out-of-state judges based on each business’s “community involvement, chamber participation, business success and overall deservedness.”

“As we shine a spotlight on this year’s Small Business of the Year Award winners, we are reminded that small businesses are the driving force behind a successful and resilient state economy,” Paige Hutto, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama said. “All of the nominees, finalist, and winners are stewards of their community and our state. Their dedication to elevating communities throughout Alabama is evident in all that they do and for that we are all grateful.”

This year’s awards featured four categories: Emerging Small Business (in operation less than five years), 1-10 Employees, 11-50 Employees, and 51-100 Employees. Each category had a bronze, silver, and gold winner.