Businesses from all over Gwynedd came together last night for the official launch of the Gwynedd Business Awards and Week, which will take place from May 23 – 27 2011.
Amongst the audience were previous winners of the Business Awards who gathered to celebrate their achievements once more and help launch the 2011 campaign in the creative surrounding of Caernarfon’s Galeri.
The surroundings and enthusiasm of those present dispelled fears of the state of the economy, and set a positive tone for the new contest. There are thirteen award categories and entries can be made through the website www.gwyneddbusinessweek.co.uk.
Councillor Dyfed Edwards, leader of Cyngor Gwynedd, was on hand to deliver the keynote speech. He said “Gwynedd Business Week is a fantastic opportunity to promote and celebrate the vast array of successful businesses operating throughout the county. Now in its sixth year, it has become a firm favourite in the Gwynedd business calendar.”
This year sees the return of the biennial Gwynedd Business Awards, “The awards are a wonderful opportunity to raise your business’ profile,” added Councillor Edwards.
“The standard of entries in 2009 was incredibly high so we are naturally exicted about this year’s competition. Taking part is an opportunity for an external endorsement of your work.”
Former Gwynedd Business Person of the Year, Stephen Bristow, of Greenwood Forest Park, said the award had been “a great motivation” for his workforce.
He added: “We were absolutely delighted to win the award. For us to be recognised by our peers and colleagues is a massive achievement.
Mr Bristow, who with his wife Andrea, opened Greenwood Forest Park in 1993 as an environmental education centre, said the experience had been highly beneficial, “We have spent 18 years building up the park so winning has been very positive, a nice pat on the back.”
Councillor Dyfed Edwards added: “As well as being a platform to celebrate the best examples of success among the county’s businesses, this year’s Business Week will also help Gwynedd’s businesses to become stronger during what is a challenging period. A series of events will be on offer throughout the county, with networking opportunities and practical help and advice on offer.
“We urge all independently-owned businesses located in Gwynedd to submit their entries. As was the case two years ago, the judges will be looking for exceptional achievement and growth potential, as well as evidence of the businesses’ contribution to Gwynedd’s economy, community and environmental sustainability.”
There will be a full calendar of events taking place across the county throughout the week and further details of all these events are available on the Gwynedd Business Week website, www.gwyneddbusinessweek.co.uk.
