THEY are categories which champion businesses showing commitment to the south coast and those that embrace technology to stand out from their competitors.

Nominations are now open for the hotly anticipated South Coast Business Awards – hailing the cream of the region’s leading companies.

There are eight categories up for grabs in the awards which aim to raise standards, encourage competition and recognise business excellence.

These include the British American Tobacco (BAT) Commitment to the Region Award and the Taylor Made Computer Solutions Award for Best Use of Technology.

The Daily Echo has organised the annual event in association with leading law firm Trethowans, and in partnership with Business South and Destination Southampton.

Commitment The British American Tobacco Commitment to the Region Award recognises businesses and organisations that have demonstrated investment in the area.

This includes supporting the local economy by creating local jobs, working with schools and colleges to mentor students and graduates and expansion in the region. Last year’s winners of the Commitment to the Region Award were Ideal Collection – a collective of pubs, bars and restaurants in the region.

BAT senior communications manager Alex Osborne said: “We are delighted to sponsor this award which recognises businesses and organisations that support the local economy through skills development, increased employment opportunities, local supply chains and community initiatives.

"Through their commitment they showcase the region as a great place to work and do business.”

Technology The Taylor Made Computer Solutions Award for Best Use of Technology focuses on those companies which use technological innovation to create a considerable competitive or operational improvement, boosting quality, customer satisfaction and revenue.

This includes using technology to stand out from competitors, deploying creative ways to keep the business fresh and meet changing customer needs.

Last year’s winners were the Natural Travel Collection, offering bespoke wildlife holidays abroad.

Taylor Made managing director Tim Walker said: “As a technology company ourselves, we are always keen to help showcase and reward new and innovative uses of technology where it is showing benefit to businesses and consumers.

“The winner will be able to illustrate measurable achievement of your objectives through the use of the technology, and explain where the use of this technology offers a distinct advantage over your competition.”

  • Entries or nominations must be submitted on an official application form, which is available alongside further information on all of the categories at dailyecho.co.uk/scba
  • The closing date for entries is Wednesday, April 22.
  • See next Tuesday’s Daily Echo for a focus on the next two awards for Hampshire Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year, and the Smith and Williamson Award for Best International Performance by a South Coast Company.