Companies urged to submit business award entry

Companies across Ireland are being urged to submit their entries for this year’s All Island Trade & Business Awards.

Sponsored by InterTradeIreland, in conjunction with IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council, the awards recognise companies involved in cross-border trade.

Hundreds of businesses across the island are expected to vie for the coveted overall All Island Trade & Business Award.

Liam Nellis, Chief Executive of InterTradeIreland said: “These awards recognise and reward those businesses already maximising the opportunities surrounding cross-border trade. Companies like last year’s winners are identifying, assessing and taking hold of cross-border opportunities. InterTradeIreland, in this the third year of the awards, hopes to encourage more businesses to realise the openings that exist on their own doorstep.

“We are particularly delighted to have added the category “Best Social Economy Business” to this year’s awards. Last year the overall number of entries was up 50% on 2002 and this year we are hoping to see an increase in last year’s figures. We strongly encourage companies, North and South to apply online at www.allislandawards.com."

The judges will select a winner from the seven category winners to receive the overall Trade & Business Award. This award will acknowledge the company, individual or organisation that has made the most of the all-island market.

Last year’s overall winner, Kirk McClure Morton, has reported having a record year in 2003. The Belfast-based consulting engineering company enjoyed an increase in appointments in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and areas which straddle both jurisdictions. Kirk McClure was among 5 category winners from Northern Ireland last year.

The closing date for entries is Friday, March 19. The winners will be announced at an event being held at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast on June 3.

(MB)