LESTER Aldridge and Santander are joining forces once again to search businesses which fit the criteria to be named Dorset’s premier company.

They are sponsoring the Company of the Year title in the Dorset Business Awards.

Entrants need to demonstrate an outstanding financial track record, with strong sales growth and a commitment to increasing profitability. The winning company is likely to be a leader in its own market with dedication to excellence in products and services. A dynamic approach to quality should also be displayed along with strategic thinking, dedication to innovation and the wider economy.

Current title holder Parkeon Transportation impressed judges by demonstrating an impressive turnover and profitability, with sales growing due to the successful introduction of new products and some major contract wins which have seen its systems being delivered in cities from Sydney to Cape Town.

Owen Griffith, managing director of Parkeon Transportation, said: “Since winning this award we have continued to innovate and have won significant new orders in the UK and overseas. I would therefore encourage other businesses to enter the awards. It is a great way to celebrate success and to recognise the people who make it happen. My main tip for any business considering entering is to focus on your purpose and strategy, showing how that translates into benefits for your customers, your employees and the wider community.’’

Grant Esterhuizen, partner and head of commercial group at Lester Aldridge, said: “There is a wealth of hidden talent within the county and the Dorset Business Awards shine a light on this. Providing a platform for companies to promote themselves is key for continued growth within the area and something we at Lester Aldridge are keen to endorse given our strong regional ties.”

Mark Robertson, relationship director in Santander’s Corporate and commercial banking team in Dorset, added: ‘‘Over several years of co-sponsoring this award, we have helped to identify and recognise local businesses that are making a positive impact on the region and further afield. This could be through strong financial performance, innovation, excellent customer service, new product development and first class training or development of their staff.’’

Entries will need to show:

n Excellence in products and services.

n Achievements and future plans.

n Financial performance.

n Identification and exploitation of new markets.

n Commitment to the training and development needs of employees.

n Contribution to enhancing Dorset’s business reputation and protecting its environment.

In association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo, the awards are backed by Wave 105. Entry is free and entries can be submitted via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk until September 3.

Entry is open to all companies with a BH or DT postcode and membership of DCCI is not required to enter.

For further information about the awards, sponsorship opportunities or tickets for the gala dinner at the BIC on November 23, please contact Stuart Dixon on 01202 714810.