The West of England Business of the Year Awards, the most prestigious business accolades in the region, have been launched by accountants PwC.
The awards are now in their 24th year with the roll call of previous winners reading like a who’s who of the West’s best business elite including major companies such as Dyson, MITIE and Renishaw.
Few business competitions across the UK can match the awards for longevity or status, with their reputation built firmly on the thoroughness of the judging panel, which is made up of respected business figures from across the region.
And this year for the first time Swindon Business News, and its sister titles Bristol Business News and Bath Business News, are media partners and supporters of the coveted awards. Full coverage of the awards, including regular updates, profiles of the finalists and comprehensive coverage of the awards dinner and winners will appear across all our titles.
The awards have two categories – one for smaller businesses with a turnover of less than £25m (or fewer than 100 employees), and one for larger businesses turning over more than £25m (or employing 100 or more staff).
PwC regional chairman Rob Lewis said: ““The awards are designed to acknowledge and celebrate businesses in the West for their success, achievements and contribution to the regional economy.”
Nick Morgan, chair of the Judges for the for larger businesses category said: “In this economic climate, we believe it is more important than ever to profile the success of local businesses in the West and their contribution in the UK and overseas.”
“We received a high number of impressive entrants for last year’s Awards and I am highly optimistic that the 2012 entrants will once again raise the bar that little bit higher.”
Smaller category chair of the Judges Tracey Bentham added: “The competition prides itself on its robust judging process and our independent panel of judges expect this year to be more competitive than ever. We anticipate having to make some very tough decisions over the next six months.”
“I am very much looking forward to meeting with this year’s entrants and witnessing the levels of excellence that businesses in the West demonstrate.”
Also supporting the awards are Beacon South West, which brings together companies and individuals with proven track records of commercial success, ITV West & Westcountry, and the Western Daily Press.
The closing date for applications is March 30 and the award ceremony will take place on June 20 at Bristol Marriott Hotel. For further information and to download an application pack contact the awards co-ordinator Jessica Poole at jessica.a.poole@uk.pwc.com.
Coverage of the awards dinner will be featured on ITV West & Westcountry Tonight on June 20.
