“Apply Now” is the message to North West businesses to earn Royal recognition with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. So far 167 regional organisations have applied for details of the 2005 Awards in the three business categories of international trade, innovation and sustainable development. The deadline is 31 October.

But officials at the Queen’s Awards Office believe there are many more who can show they are among the best in the country.

To date 22 companies from Merseyside and 26 from Greater Manchester have responded, with others from areas such as Bolton and Wigan.

Stephen Brice, acting Secretary at The Queen’s Awards Office said:

“The number from the North West is a little disappointing and we would like to see more applying for this most prestigious of business accolades. Over the years there have been many winners from the region – including 12 this year - and there is no reason why more successful companies shouldn’t apply to join them in 2005.

“Unlike many awards, these recognise the contribution made by everyone involved and not just individuals. The benefits to be gained are wide ranging - winners say that the Award has enhanced their reputation both at home and overseas and boosted staff morale by as much as 80 per cent.

“Add to this the amount of positive publicity about the company and the right to use the coveted Queen’s Award emblem in marketing, and the value of the Award is really significant.”

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David Moore, Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Advisory Committee on The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, stressed that all UK businesses can enter – not just the big multi-nationals.

“Size is irrelevant. There’s a misconception that only big companies win Queen’s Awards, but nearly half of the 2004 winners have fewer than 50 employees and a score have fewer than 10, including Bridgeclear of Crewe with four and Second Nature of Penrith with six. After all, small and medium sized companies employ 12 million people in the UK and contribute £1 trillion a year to our economy.

“If a company employs at least two people, is UK-based and a high achiever in its field it can enter. And even if it doesn’t win, the feedback report detailing the strengths and weakness of their application is a valuable tool towards future success.”

Would-be Queen’s Awards winners should phone 0870 513 4486 or visit www.queensawards.org.uk for an entry pack. The deadline for this year’s Awards is 31 October 2004.

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