Londonderry Chamber of Commerce city centre initiative

28 January 2016

Expanded business awards announced

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and City Centre Initiative have launched this year’s North West Business Awards, inviting applications for 15 categories. For the first time, entries are being invited from across the North West region and the expanded awards replace the very successful annual Derry ~ Londonderry Business Awards. The Bank of Ireland is the principal sponsor for the North West Business Awards.

The awards ceremony in May is one of the premier events in the annual business calendar and always attracts considerable interest from local firms. It provides an opportunity for our businesses to promote themselves, explain their achievements and celebrate their successes. The quality of entries has improved every year.

Sinead Mc Laughlin, Chief Executive of Londonderry Chamber, said: “We are delighted to be extending the reach of this event to further highlight the North West region as a great place in which to do business. I would encourage businesses of all sizes to get involved and enter.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate all of your hard work and your successes, to differentiate your business as a leader in your field and to create positive PR. It is of paramount importance that we continue to recognise, encourage and reward those people who are working so hard to create wealth and jobs in the region.”

Jim Roddy, Chief Executive of the City Centre Initiative, added: “We are delighted to again work in conjunction with the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce in recognising and rewarding the talent and quality of our regional businesses.

“A vibrant and successful region is comprised of quality services, unique business offerings, friendly staff and safe surroundings. We believe that our confident and professional commercial sector more than satisfies these requirements. Through these awards we wish to acknowledge the hard work and excellent service and ultimately, the benefit to our city and region gained from our superior business establishments and service providers.”

Eugene Kearney, Commercial Branch Manager at Bank of Ireland, said: “Bank of Ireland UK is proud to be working in partnership with Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and City Centre Initiative on the 2016 North West Business Awards. We understand the importance of all businesses within the region and their pivotal role in the economy and the role these awards have in highlighting and rewarding those who strive for excellence.

“Banking lies at the heart of business activity and our continued involvement in these awards reflects our drive and commitment in supporting businesses in the region in their continuous improvement, setting new and higher standards in business, and in playing a part in the success of the North West.”

The North West Business Awards are free to enter and comprise 15 key categories. They are open to all businesses and organisations in the North West region. The closing date for entries is Monday, 21st March, at 12 noon. The awards shortlist will be announced in April.

Successful applicants will be honoured at the prestigious North West Awards ceremony, which will take place on Friday 13th May 2016 at the City Hotel, Derry.

Press release issued by Paul Gosling, 0777 595 2602