News

June 28, 2011

Outstanding businesses called on to enter Queen’s Awards

Businesses which can demonstrate outstanding commercial success have the chance to boost their profile by entering the prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise.

Described as a “knighthood for business”, the awards are open to UK-based businesses which have at least two full-time employees or part-time equivalent, and can demonstrate commercial success in one of the three categories – international trade, innovation and sustainable development.

Businesses must have been running for at least two years to be eligible for the innovation or sustainable development categories, and at least three to enter the international trade category.

Winners are entitled to display the Queen’s Award emblem on their stationery, advertising, marketing material and packaging for a period of five years. They will also be offered guidance on how to use their award to market their firm.

In addition, successful applicants will also be invited to a garden party reception at Buckingham Palace and be visited by a royal representative.

“Use the application process as a chance to evaluate what you’ve done as a business and as a way of communicating your achievements to your staff, customers and suppliers,” said last year’s winner of the sustainable development award, yoghurt manufacturer Yeo Valley’s communications director, Graham Keating.

The deadline for entries is 31 October 2011.

• For more information about the awards and to download an application form, visit the Business Link website