Firms urged to go in for Queen’s Awards
Lord Lieutenant says help with applying is available
It has been a tough 12 months for businesses across Perth and Kinross - but many have shown true community spirit during these darkest of times.
And enterprises are now being encouraged to put themselves forward for the UK’s most prestigious business award.
The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise have been dubbed the “knighthood of the business world”.
With international credibility, it can offer a level of recognition that can propel local businesses onto a global stage.
Winners become globally recognised as ‘outstanding British businesses’ and the awards emblem itself represents a ‘royal seal of approval’ which can be used across all marketing material.
And there is the small matter of an invitation to a royal reception, restrictions permitting of course.
The Queen’s representative in Perth and Kinross Lord Lieutenant Stephen Leckie is keen to see as many companies as possible throw their hat into the ring this year.
And he reckons is could be the perfect ‘pick me up’ as the country hopefully starts to emerge from the COVID nightmare.
Speaking to the PA, he said: “These awards are so important, especially now.
“So many businesses are doing so many good things right now, and now is the time to talk about that.
“Not everyone who goes for an enterprise award will get it but it’s definitely worthwhile to try - it’s not much to fill out an application form.
“We will help with the application process.” First established in 1966, The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are recognised as the most prestigious business awards in the UK.
To date, 6176 companies have received a Queen’s Award.
The application process for this year’s awards do not open until May, but businesses are encouraged to start preparing now.
The awards are free to enter and the four categories are: innovation; international trade; sustainable development; and promoting opportunity (through social mobility).
Anyone looking got get involved can visit https://www.gov.uk/queens-awards-forenterprise or one of the deputy lieutenants for assistance: Charlie Gallagher cmgallagher57@gmail.com or 07768 564717; Alex Cairncross - alex@alexcairncross.co.uk or 07771 566429.