Melton Times Business Awards 2013
Celebrating the best in the business with the fifth annual Melton Times Business Awards
The Melton Times is celebrating what makes Melton best – the best place to do business, visit, shop and eat – but we need your help.
The window for nominations has now closed
Nominated businesses will be sent a short questionnaire which they will need to return no later than 10am on Monday, February 11.
The judges will shortlist and then carry out visits to find their finalists and winners. Judging will take place between February 7 and 22.
Three or more finalists in each category will be invited to the gala dinner at Pera Conference
Centre on Thursday, March 7 when the winners will be announced.
The idea is to show that while times are tough, businesses can still thrive and excel in Melton and across the borough.
Editor Michael Cooke said: "The prestige of winning is in itself a real boost for any local business – just ask the winners from the last four years.
"They all proudly display their trophies and awards and use them to promote their business, gain new customers and retain and recruit the best staff.
"Think what it would mean to say 'we are the best in the business' and have the trophy to prove it."
The awards will culminate in a prestigious dinner and presentation evening at the Pera Conference Centre on Thursday, March 7.
The awards and sponsors
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Best New Business (sponsor: Melton Borough Council)
This award will recognise new enterprise and is open to businesses set up in the last 18 months.
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Best Independent Retailer (sponsor: Federation of Small Businesses)
Melton needs a good range of independent shops to keep its appeal, but which is your favourite and why?
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Green Achievement (sponsor: PAM Saint-Gobain)
For businesses which can demonstrate the greatest commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.
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Young Entrepreneur (sponsor: Pera Foundation)
This award will go to the young person (under 30) who has shown entrepreneurial talent and is one to watch.
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Best Eating Experience (sponsor: Samworth Brothers)
Where are the best places for a simple lunch or to enjoy fantastic fine dining? Tell us where our undercover food critic should visit.
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Best Customer Care (sponsor: Melton BID Company)
This award will go to the business which delivers, in the judges' opinion, the highest standards of excellence in all aspects of service.
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Best Shopfront (sponsor: Jeld-Wen)
This award will recognise those businesses which have invested in good shopfront design and take a pride in their appearance.
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People Development Award (sponsor: Brooksby Melton College)
For companies which can demonstrate a real and continuing commitment to training.
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Contribution to the Community (sponsor: Melton Mowbray Chamber of Trade)
This award will go to the person or team which has made a real contribution to the wider business community.
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Business of the Year (sponsor: Duncan & Toplis)
This is the blue riband award and will go to the business which can demonstrate the best overall achievements in the last 12 months.