MARKET-LEADERS of Swindon and Wiltshire’s thriving business community came together on Thursday morning to toast the success of the 2018 Wiltshire Business Awards.

More than 100 entrepreneurs, small to medium enterprises, and larger businesses came together at title sponsors Thrings’ offices for the launch of the awards this morning.

Organised in partnership with Newsquest Wiltshire, the awards celebrate the achievements of Wiltshire’s thriving business community that have seen them at the top of their game.

Acting editor of the Swindon Advertiser, Gazette & Herald and Wiltshire Times Michelle Tompkins said: “The Wiltshire Business Awards are an important fixture in the county’s calendar and it was encouraging to meet so many local business people at the breakfast launch, all keen to enter and show off what they have to offer.

“The entry process is a useful analysis tool in itself, encouraging businesses to take a closer look at how they operate and why, so there is a lot to gain from getting involved. I especially enjoyed hearing from previous winner Clare Haines of The Lingerie Outlet Store, who hopefully inspired people with her story of phenomenal success since winning her award in 2011.

“I look forward to seeing and hearing about all of this year’s entrants, and learning more about how they are contributing to our thriving business community.”

Louise Cooper, Newsquest Wiltshire’s business development manager said: “We were delighted with the turn out for the launch of our 24th annual Wiltshire Business Awards at Thrings in Swindon. It’s wonderful to see such a vibrant business community coming together and to have the opportunity to meet so many people at the forefront of this diverse community.

“During the wonderful breakfast launch, hosted with great success once again by Thrings, the businesses attending had the opportunity to learn more about the categories on offer at this year’s Wiltshire Business Awards, including two new categories of Learning and Development Employer of the Year, and Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility Award.

“Once again it was lovely to meet our judges who have the unenviable task of going through each nomination before deciding who goes on to the next round. It was fascinating to find out what they are looking for in their entries.

“We would urge all members of the business community to consider putting themselves forward for a Wiltshire Business Awards.”

Thrings partner and long-time awards judge, Ramona Derbyshire, said: “The awards provide the perfect occasion for individuals and organisations in Wiltshire to reflect on their performance over the previous twelve months, showcase their expertise, and, crucially, assess the direction in which they are heading. In previous years entrants have found the process extremely rewarding, not least because it has allowed them to step away from their businesses and take that all-important helicopter view.

“As judges, we love getting to know businesses better, learning about their commercial aims and ambitions, and understanding a little more about what makes them tick. And while this information enables us to draw up shortlists and ultimately pick the winners, it also reminds us of the rich talent that makes Wiltshire such as fantastic place to do business.

“Thrings is very pleased that have welcomed so many members of the Wiltshire business community to its offices at Drakes Meadow. Based on the high number of entrepreneurs, SMEs and organisations that were able to join us, it's clear the awards remain as popular as ever, and we wish all those involved the very best of luck.”

The deadline for entries to be submitted is January 22, 2018 but if anyone needs any advice or help then they can email awards2018@wiltshire.newsquest.co.uk or call Louise Cooper on 01225 773663. Full details relating to the awards process including the application form can be found at www.wiltshirebusinessawards.co.uk.