Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership is urging firms in the county to seek recognition from the Queen.
The plea comes in the wake of Her Majesty’s recent visit to Worcester where she was greeted by cheering crowds.
The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious and coveted awards for UK businesses. They come in three categories: Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development.
There is also an award for individuals – The Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion honours those promoting enterprise and entrepreneurial skills and attitudes in others. There are just 10 given out each year and usually one special Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2012 Uniline Safety Systems of Redditch, suppliers of spares to the oil and gas industry, were examples of the former. And in the latter category Dr Geoffrey Davies OBE, managing director, Alamo Group Europe of Salford Priors, makers of hedge and grass cutters, backhoes, mowers and cultivators, was centre stage.
A total of 156 Queen’s Awards were announced, 102 for international trade, 44 for innovation and 10 for sustainable development.
Winning firms covered a vast range of business sectors including architecture and design, building and construction, motoring and transport, electronics and technology, manufacturing and engineering, law and finance, tourism and leisure, medical and pharmaceuticals, food and drink, oil and gas, media and marketing, metals, plastics and packaging, safety and surveillance, printing, recycling, logistics and utilities.
For 2013 entries and nominations have to be in by September 28 this year.
Worcestershire LEP chairman Peter Pawsey said: “This is the highest level of recognition available to UK businesses.
“Is your business one of the best in its field? Do you want independent recognition for your success? If so, you should apply.
“Worcestershire has many great businesses and they deserve to be in the spotlight. Winning an Award means that you are judged to be outstanding. The benefits can be many: from excellent press and publicity opportunities to improved staff morale; from increased sales to recognition in the UK and globally.”
Entry to the Awards is free and open to all UK-based companies employing a minimum of two full time people or equivalent.
Winners receive a commemorative Grant of Appointment certificate and a crystal bowl, presented during a company visit by a Royal representative such as the Lord Lieutenant, and can display the Awards emblem for five years. All winners are invited to a reception with the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Linda Stephens, Secretary of The Queen’s Awards office, said: “Winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise is the ultimate business accolade. It shows that you are a leader in your area.
“The Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion is a great honour and recognises the hard work done by people who encourage others into business.”
In a recent survey 77 per cent of winners reported the win had brought added commercial value to their business; 73 per cent saw employee engagement rise;
85 per cent said the impact of winning a Queen’s Award met or exceeded their expectations; and 57 per cent of the International Trade sector achieved increased recognition overseas.
The awards are only given for the highest levels of excellence demonstrated in each category.
