Here's your chance to enter the Torbay Weekly Business Awards

Winner Lorraine Arnold has spelled out why local companies should enter the Torbay Weekly Naturally Inspiring Business Awards.

The Pier Point owner was among finalists who attended the glittering awards night at the Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay last year.

It was a night to remember for the boss of the award-winning fish and chip restaurant and takeaway on Torquay seafront as she was named the James Wright Inspirational Business Leader of the Year - an award nicknamed the 'Jimmy' award in memory of the late James Wright from Majestic Holidays and presented by his son Mark.

Just 12 months previous Lorraine and Pier Point were winning the Business Resilience  category in the first year of the awards following Covid.

As the 2024 awards are launched, Lorraine says: "At Pier Point, we believe in constantly pushing the boundaries to provide an exceptional dining experience and striving for perfection in all that we do. That's why we participate in prestigious awards, and especially the prestigious local awards sponsored by Torbay Weekly, the Naturally Inspiring Business Awards.  
"Competing in the Naturally Inspiring Business Awards challenges us to maintain the highest standards of service, food and ambiance. It ensures that we consistently deliver excellence to our valued customers. 

"Entering motivates us to constantly innovate and refine our menu, techniques and presentation, staff development and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented chefs, servers, and staff. 

"To be a finalist or winner is a proud moment for our entire team who work tirelessly to create memorable dining experiences. The whole team is inspired to excel and provide a level of customer service above and beyond which places us in a unique position in the area. 
"The awards provide validation and industry recognition, showcasing our commitment to outstanding culinary experiences. They help us build credibility and attract visitors from far and wide to our wonderful Bay."  
 The 2024 awards are already open for entries and the finals night for shortlisted winners pencilled in for Thursday June 13, 2024.

The venue will be the same, the Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay, where around 200 guests enjoyed a great night of inspiration and celebration at this year's awards ceremony.
Entries will close on Friday April 5. Judging Day is set for Monday April 8.
Paignton-based hi-tech firm QLM Technology were the 2023 overall Business of the Year winners as tech came together with tourism in the same setting for the first time.
QLM Technology, with a base at the EPIC Centre off the Torbay Ring Road in Paignton, is carrying out world-pioneering work in the battle against climate change after developing a new type of laser imaging, detection, and ranging camera based on quantum technology that can see and accurately quantify greenhouse gas emissions.
QLM, who also won the Best New Business category, were one of several companies from the hi-tech' cluster to taste success on the night with Bay Photonics (Innovation) and Spirent Communications (Inspiring Employer) also picking up awards.
Casting Support Systems won the Environmental Award.
The tourism and hospitality sectors were also celebrating success. Splashdown water park and award-winning Beverley Holidays were joint winners of the Best Tourism Business category. 
Digital marketing specialist Gina Franchi was named Young Business Person with training firm Essential 6 winning the Small Business category and Sound Communities were recognised with the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez's award for its work out in the community and with young people.
Special Lifetime Achievement awards were also given to Tanny Stobart for her inspirational work championing young people, and Nick Powe, of UNESCO Geopark fame and former owner of the pre-historic Kents Cavern caves.
At the moment the categories are the same and you can find out how to enter and enter by going to torbaybusinessawards.co.uk 
If you would like to sponsor a category please contact jim.parker@clearskypublishing. co.uk or chris.coward@ clearskypublishing.co.uk