THE JUDGES are sharpening their pencils to do the marking in the South Wilts Business of the Year Awards.

The team, made up of representatives of businesses and support groups across the region, have until the end of the month to complete their marking in what promises to be the largest and most competitive event of its kind with over 800 entrants.

There are over 800 entrants to the competition and each business will receive a visit before the final decision is reached. This year’s event has a total of 11 awards. They are:

Marketing Excellence, sponsored by AN.X Agency, where the judges will be looking for a mix of marketing excellence including a “clear relationship between its marketing strategy and the development of the business.”

Independent Retailer, sponsored by the Salisbury Journal, for the retailer who “has a firm understanding of how to maximise all retail opportunities.”

Business of the Year, Barclays, for the best of South Wiltshire’s larger companies with over £5 million turnover.

New Business, Spire FM, for the best young company that can demonstrate significant growth and expansion among other attributes.

Best Business Under £150k Turnover, Elite Care, for a micro business making a difference to the community and its customers.

Young Entrepreneur, St Thomas’s Church, for the most successful young entrepreneurs. under 25 enjoying success in building their own business, or an employee making outstanding impact in contributing to the successes of a larger organisation.

Small Business Award (£150k to £500k), Federation of Small Businesses, for the best of South Wiltshire’s small companies with under £500,000 turnover.

Apprentice Employer, Wiltshire College, for the employer that has most fully embraced apprenticeships. as part of their business ethos and can positively demonstrate the effectiveness of employing an apprentice.

Business of the Year (£500k to £5m turnover), Moore Stephens, for the best of South Wiltshire’s companies with over £500,000 turnover. The winner of this category will be clearly demonstrating the use of good ideas, careful planning and a determination to succeed to produce a thriving business.

Enterprising Women in Business, Enterprise Network, for an exceptional woman who has made a real difference in business over the past 12 months.

Excellence in Customer Service, Wessex Fire and Security, for the best business selected from candidates nominated by the public.