CUSTOMER service plays a vital role for any firm seeking or retaining business.

And firms ignore at their peril the retail adage that the customer is always right.

Genuine and innovative focus on customer service and care will be what the judges are looking for one of the prestigious gongs at the 2012 South Coast Business Awards.

The award has been designed for businesses who can demonstrate excellent customer service and achievement within that field.

Judging criteria will include customer service objectives and strategy, business performance, customer care, staff development plans and how this has driven business growth.

RSM Tenon, the 7th largest accountancy firm in the UK, has built its national client base through excellent service and was last year voted National Firm of the Year at the British Accountancy Awards.

The firm, regarded as one of the most progressive and entrepreneurial in the UK accountancy sector, will be sponsors of the customer service award.

John Taylor, managing director of the RSM Tenon’s Southampton office, said: “Our client service programme is designed to provide excellent service to all of our clients by, empowering our staff to deliver to the highest standards through the provision of the support, infrastructure and tools they require.

“We are well placed to recognise and reward a business with client service at the heart and are proud sponsors of the Business Solent Customer Service Award for 2012.”