The Covid-19 pandemic has presented the toughest challenge any business has faced in living memory.
But the crisis has also brought out the best in all of us.
Those in the South West business community have supported and continue to support one another, which gives great cause for optimism as we edge closer to easing coronavirus restrictions across the UK.
Now more than ever, it is important that we reward such efforts.
The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the UK’s most prestigious business awards – and businesses can apply now.
First established in 1965, more than 7,000 companies have since achieved a Queen’s Award.
The Awards recognise and reward outstanding achievements in the fields of Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility).
They can bring substantial benefits to winners, including increased staff morale, boosts to turnover and international trade, greater recognition and excellent marketing opportunities.
As well as a presentation at the workplace to all the staff by the Queen’s representative, winners are also invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace.
The Award is valid for five years and you can use the logo on your stationery, uniforms, marketing material, and so on.
There is even a flag you can fly at your premises to highlight you are a Queen’s Award winner.
One of the South West winners last year was Plymouth Citybus, who received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
The firm was honoured in the ‘Promoting Opportunity’ category for its work assisting the “most vulnerable and disadvantaged” in finding employment.
Richard Stevens, managing director of Plymouth Citybus and Go South West, said: “We are over the moon to have not only been shortlisted for a Queen’s Award, but go on and win one for social mobility.
“It is a huge honour and really goes to show the amount of pride each and every member of the team takes in providing a valuable service.
“I am extremely proud that Plymouth Citybus and Go Cornwall Bus (a sister company) again punch above its weight and achieve something that is truly remarkable.”
Richard will be on hand to tell us more about the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise during our exclusive invitation-only Zoom event at 4pm on Friday, July 30.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Devon has also put together this handy guide about the Queen’s Awards – including details on all the categories, how to apply and what happens if your company wins.
Apply for a Queen’s Award for Enterprise here.
You must submit your application by midday on September 8th, 2021.
