The organisers of an annual Newcastle-under-Lyme focused business awards programme have vowed to relaunch in 2021 after the coronavirus pandemic led to the cancellation of this year’s competition.

The Business Boost Awards are committed to fostering business growth across the borough.

“2020 is the first time there hasn’t been a Business Boost competition in more than a decade, but planning has now started for a relaunch in the new year,” said awards committee chair, Sarah Da Silva.

“This year has undoubtedly hurt many businesses in the borough, so we decided to take a year away and, as a committee, take time to reflect on the awards going forward.

“We’re looking to maybe tweak the format and evolve the awards programme and we also want to acknowledge the changes everyone has gone through this year, giving a boost to small businesses who have survived and thrived despite Covid-19 and highlighting stories of companies who have adapted and bounced back.”

The Business Boost Awards looks at the potential of the borough’s small and medium sized businesses and works to encourage their growth.

The competition was founded in 2008 and the committee is made up of a group of local business people, who give their time without charge, They are supported by Trudi Barnard, Newcastle Borough Council Business Development Officer and the Newcastle-under-Lyme BID.

Committee member Julie Mirowski of Rydale Roofing, said: “Our business was among the early Business Boost winners. It gave us a genuine boost in terms of confidence, helped us to raise our profile and to grow. The committee behind the competition were supportive and helped us to focus on business planning. I would urge any ambitious business to give the competition a try in 2021.”

ENDS
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