Following the success of MP Ben Howlett’s inaugural Business Awards in 2016, the categories for next year’s 2017 awards have now been announced.
2016 saw over 80 local businesses entered, and with an increase in the number of categories for 2017 Ben hopes the number will grow further.
Ben said: “Independent businesses are vital to the unique nature of commerce in Bath. The business awards last year attracted entries from a wide range of smaller companies across the city.
“With new categories this year we hope to cover an even wider mix of businesses. We recognise how busy small business owners are, and have therefore kept the application process as simple as possible so all small businesses can easily enter – or be nominated by their customers.”
Ben’s Best of Bath Business Awards work in conjunction with the Federation of Small Businesses and headline sponsor Gradwell Communications Ltd, with additional sponsorship opportunities still available.
Nick Thompson, Chief Executive Office of Gradwell Communications Ltd said: “A large slice of Bath’s attractiveness is its thriving independent sector which, in a world of homogeneity, is increasingly under pressure.
“As an independent Bath business supplying Cloud & Communication services across the UK, Gradwell is incredibly proud to be able sponsor these awards.
“We appreciate and recognise the contribution independent businesses play in creating Bath’s vibrant economy.”
Angela MacAusland of the FSB said: “I am delighted once again to be involved with the awards representing FSB but also as a judge.
“It’s a great initiative to bring together the independent businesses of Bath and a fantastic way to recognise and reward the many fantastic businesses that make up the diversity that is unique to Bath.”
The categories for the 2017 awards are as follows:
- Best Independent in the Drinks Sector (pubs, cocktail bars)
- Best Independent Accommodation Provider (hotels, guest houses, B&Bs)
- Best Independent Professional Services Provider (lawyers, financial experts etc)
- Best Independent in the Arts, Crafts and Creatives sector (gift shops, galleries, artists)
- Best Independent in the Food sector (cafes, restaurants, delis, bakers)
- Best Independent Newcomer (started trading after 1st January 2016)
- Best Independent in the Health, Fitness and Beauty Sector (fitness, hairdressers, dentists, beauticians)
- Best Independent Retailer (all shops)
- Best Independent B2B provider (printers, business support, offices, marketing)
- Best High Street/Community Shopping Area
- Best High Tech Independent (web designers, web marketing etc)
Entries will open on 3rd December 2016, Small Business Saturday, however, if you want to nominate a company beforehand, just email [email protected] with up to 100 words why they should be considered and they will be entered.
