NOMINATIONS are now open for the Echo-backed South Coast Business Awards.

The most coveted trophy is the Trethowans Overall Winner’s Award, which is chosen from the shortlisted businesses in each award category and will be the very best of the best.

The winning firm will need to have enjoyed very strong performance over the past year and also demonstrated a clear business strategy, strong financial management and performance and clear signs of growth and development, among other factors.

Simon Rhodes, senior partner of award sponsors Trethowans, commented: “We’d love to hear from growing and dynamic South Coast businesses who are building sustainable success. It is always good to hear stories involving a strong commitment to their staff, customers, the environment and the wider community.”

Last year’s winner was long-established Hampshire builders’ merchants Elliotts.

Sales director, Paul Cleary, thought Elliotts were out of the running after the firm had been shortlisted for the Lakesmere Growth Business of the Year Award but had lost out to CV Library.

Paul commented: “We were so honoured to win the Trethowans overall winner award in 2015 and particularly proud to be praised for our customer service. I believe that reflects our staff’s passion for the business. We’re independent and throughout six generations and over 170 years we’ve had one focus, to put our customers and the future of Hampshire first.

“Since winning the award the company’s excellent growth has continued and 2016 sees us launching new offerings such as Elliotts Living Spaces to serve a wider range of customers and refurbishing and refreshing branches throughout the region.

“We wish the best of luck to all those in year’s awards.”

The awards are run in partnership with Business South, Wave 105 and Destination Southampton.

This year’s winners will be announced at a black-tie awards ceremony held at the Hilton at the Ageas Bowl on July 14.

HOW TO ENTER

ANY company whose head office is based within Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is eligible to enter or to be nominated for the competition.

Companies with a head office outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are welcome to enter on the understanding that they have a bespoke business plan for their Hampshire operation.

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 20.

- See Thursday’s Echo for a focus Best Use of Technology Award, sponsored by Taylor Made Solutions, and the award for Commitment to the Region, sponsored by British American Tobacco.