There's still time to enter Hampshire’s most prestigious business awards.

With just one week left before the entry closing date, it’s time to nominate your employer or firm for the eight hotly contested gongs at this year’s South Coast Business Awards 2013.

Organised by the Daily Echo, in association with leading law firm Trethowans, the awards aim to raise standards, stimulate competition and recognise business excellence. They are being run in partnership with Business Solent and Destination Southampton.

Award organiser Jason Tuck said: “The competition is hotting up as we had a high calibre of entries across the award categories – but there’s still time to enter the contest.

“There’s a week left to nominate your company or employer that you believe should be recognised for being the best.

“Only by nominating will the business community know about your success or strengths. Promoting your business on the back of its strengths is more than vital than ever in today’s economy.”

Winners will be announced at a glittering black-tie event at the Grand Harbour Hotel in Southampton on July 12, where the guest speaker will be Michael Portillo, a former Tory MP and cabinet minister turned TV political pundit and broadcaster.

Last year’s big winners were Southampton-based Salon Supplies, which won the acclaimed Trethowans Business of the Year Award and the Smith & Williamson Growth Business of the Year Award.

Founded in Chandler’s Ford 35 years ago, the hair products wholesaler grew from being run from a lock up garage to achieving a £9.4m turnover, seven branches, 16 field sales consultants and 85 staff. Entries for the 2013 awards close on Wednesday, April 10.