The 2014 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards are being launched this week.
Nominations are now open, and accepted until Wednesday, 30 July.
Now in their 23rd year, these awards acknowledge the people who go above and beyond - providing an exceptional customer service experience.
Nominate a business which makes getting a haircut, buying coffee, or buying any product or service the highlight of your week.
The Hawkesbury Local Business Awards gives customers the opportunity to express their gratitude for the role business plays in making their life more special. It is also a chance to reward businesses which employ local people, bring economic drive to the area, and support local community organisations.
This year's major sponsors are Hawkesbury City Council and NOVA Employment. Support sponsors are Richmond Marketplace, Windsor Riverview Shopping Centre, Vintage FM 88.7, Hawkesbury City Chamber of Commerce and Windsor Business Group. The media partner is the Hawkesbury Gazette.
Nominating a local business in the Hawkesbury Local Business Awards helps distinguish them as one of the best in the local area; the awards logo is an easily-recognised symbol of excellence to local customers.
Nominations cover a wide range of business categories; a favourite business could be recognised as the most outstanding in their specific industry.
Manager of the 2014 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards, Steve Loe, said 2014 offers local businesses in Hawkesbury the chance to reach new levels of success.
"Competing in the awards is the best way to put customers on notice and to become the standard for all other businesses in the area to reach,” he said.
"Businesses who receive commendable public support throughout the nomination period will be selected as category finalists.
"Every vote can mean the difference between making the cut and missing out, so all customers are encouraged to get involved."
Only one business per category can be nominated by an individual. All participating voters will go into the running to win a Sony PlayStation 4.
Voting coupons will be available in the Hawkesbury Gazette and Courier and for for download at www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
You may also register your business or vote for registered businesses at the website.
Once finalist businesses have been confirmed, the judging process will begin to determine the category winners.
Finalists will be evaluated on their ability to excel within a variety of fundamental business principles encompassing the full service experience. This includes personalised customer service, the appearance and presentation of the business and staff, value for money, and merchandising and presentation of product and service offerings.
Judging is carried out by independent people, and is completely anonymous so as to accurately reflect the service experience an average customer could expect.
The theme for the 2014 Local Business Awards program is “We’re Here For You”.
The theme celebrates and recognises the positive impact that local business and communities have on one another.
"Local business improves the lives of customers, offering high-quality products and services delivered through superior, personalised customer experience," Mr Loe said.
"Local customers form a loyal, regular customer core, supporting local business through their patronage.
"The local business awards themselves are also “Here For You”, giving customers a voice of support for local business, and allowing them to shape and reward the business community.
"The Awards are also here for the local businesses, acknowledging and rewarding outstanding efforts put forth by extraordinary people."
The Hawkesbury Courier and Gazette will provide updates on the progress of the awards, including a full listing of finalists; making participation in the awards a fantastic promotional opportunity for local businesses.
Winners of the 2014 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards will be announced at the presentation evening on Wednesday, 17 September; a night of celebration of local small business and community spirit.
Details: Precedent Productions 8577 5060.
