Best Business 2007

Solihull is rich in businesses which make a major contribution to the economy of the area. This award will be made to the company which adapts and practices the fundamentals of good business. This year, the category is split into large and small business by turnover. Small business is qualified by a turnover of up to £1m per annum.

Retailer of the Year 2007

This award will be made to the Solihull based retailer that strives to create a shopping experience for their customers and demonstrates good business practice.

Criteria: Evidence of an understanding of customers' requirements, innovation in service delivery and of consumer satisfaction with services and products. Can show evidence of Business growth throughout 2006 and good prospects for 2007.

New Business 2007

This award will be made to the Solihull business that can demonstrate growth in turnover or employees and show evidence of good prospects in the next twelve months.

Criteria: Company must have started trading in 2006 and must be situated in Solihull. NB: Some financial information may be required to validate your entry.
* This category is not open to franchise businesses.

Small Business 2007

This award will be given to the Solihull small business that can demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit, adaptation to a changing market and show sustained growth.


Criteria: Companies must have up to 15 employees in total, and have created employment from the local community.
* Franchise businesses may enter this category.

Employee of the Year 2007

This award will be made to the individual that has made the most impressive contribution to their company in 2006 thus directly benefiting the business.

Criteria: To demonstrate individuals beneficial input during 2006, whether the contribution was through sales or productivity measured against the previous year.

Training Excellence 2007

This award will be presented to the business which can demonstrate sustained growth through the adoption of a Training and Development programme. This will include companies who have established employer's links with education.

Criteria: What percentage of the workforce underwent internal or external training in 2006? Is financial assistance given to staff for training? What local educational links has the company made in 2006?

Professional Services 2007

This category is open to estate agents, banks, solicitors, law firms, insolvency practices, financial institutions and insurance companies. The award will be made to a professional practice that has distinguished itself from its peers by introducing new technology, expansion of client base and adaptation of new working practices. Sustained growth and ongoing potential to develop key areas for future growth will also be taken into consideration.

Creative Excellence 2007

This category aims to provide local businesses with the opportunity to showcase their creative talent.


Criteria: Your business should have less than 250 employees and work in one of the following sectors: Advertising and the media, creative writing, publishing, visual arts, craft & design, music, music technology and performing arts, film, TV and Radio, Screen based media and games. Your business must demonstrate how it has impacted on specific market places and show direction and growth from its activities.

Community Involvement 2007

This award will be presented to the company or organisation that has been involved with the local community in Solihull. This involvement might be on a project basis or be demonstrated as consistent support and involvement in local initatives.

Customer Services 2007

This award will be presented to the business that can demonstrate customer service above and beyond expectations.

Criteria: Evidence and examples of testimonials, service and performance measures, and an ongoing commitment to sustaining these standards of excellence achieved.