Category Information
For businesses with a turnover of up to £5 million
This award recognises an outstanding medium sized business that has demonstrated sustained growth, strong leadership and commercial success. Open to businesses across all sectors, it celebrates organisations that have established a strong market presence while continuing to innovate, develop their people and deliver exceptional results.
Judges are looking for businesses that have successfully balanced ambition with sustainable growth, demonstrating clear strategic direction and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. This award celebrates businesses that are making a significant contribution to Somerset’s economy through strong performance, customer excellence and a commitment to long term success.
Judges are looking for:
- Evidence of strong business performance and financial sustainability (turnover and profit/loss figures will be treated in confidence and estimates are acceptable)
- A clear business plan supported by well defined objectives and measurable achievements
- Demonstrable growth, ambition and a clear vision for the long term future of the business
- Examples of innovation, resilience and the ability to respond successfully to challenges and opportunities
- Evidence of excellent customer service and strong customer relationships
- A commitment to developing employees, fostering a positive workplace culture and investing in future talent
Please note: Judges have requested that the following documents are included as part of your application:
- Business Plan
- Accounts
For any queries regarding your entry, please get in touch with the Chamber team at info@somersetbusinessawards.org.uk.
How do I enter?
- Choose your category
- Enter a statement of up to 800 words explaining why your business merits an award
- Highlight up to six key points selling your company to the judges
- Attach up to five pieces of evidence to support your application – attachments can be up to a maximum of 2MB each.
- Attach the company logo
Does my business qualify?
BS21, 22, 23, 24, 40, 48 and 49
The business should have its head office within the defined eligible area set out above. If this is not the case, the entry MUST demonstrate that the enterprise has local autonomy over business planning, marketing, HR and budget within the eligible areas listed above.
If you are unsure if you qualify, please get in touch.
Award Judge
Nick Wadham, Handelsbanken Senior Corporate Banking Manager, Taunton
Nick plays a key role in supporting the Branch’s ambition of growth as well as the continued commitment of working in partnership with local businesses across Taunton and the wider Somerset area. With over 13 years’ experience working alongside SME businesses across the South West, Nick has a real passion in providing exceptional customer service as well as taking the time to fully understand the makeup of each business and the key drivers in supporting them succeed.
This is the first year that Handelsbanken Taunton have sponsored an award, Nick and the wider team are excited to be judging a category that has a real impact on supporting economic growth across Somerset as well as showcasing the variety of business across the county.
Sponsored By
Handelsbanken
The Taunton branch of Handelsbanken has been providing personal banking, wealth management and corporate banking services since 2010.
As a Handelsbanken customer, the branch is the primary point of contact for all your banking needs. Your dedicated account manager will support you to achieve your financial goals by providing a tailored service, with the benefit of local decision making. Thanks to our decentralised operating model, our experienced branch team are empowered to make the key decisions that matter to you, facilitating your unique banking requirements; all from within the branch.
If you would like to learn more about Handelsbanken or discuss how we may be able to help you or your business, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Our 2027 Sponsors
