A THREE-day festival of business next year will include the return of the Dorset Business Awards. 

Dorset Chamber announced at its annual general meeting that the new-look awards would be part of a conference and exhibition in October.

The awards have not taken place since 2019.

Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said at the AGM: “We all know the economic climate looks challenging but as businesses we must keep moving forward with a positive, although not naïve, attitude.

“I want Dorset Chamber to be leading from the front to support our members and the wider business community, and I urge everyone to keep talking business up rather than down.”

Caron Khan became the first of the chamber’s presidents to be elected for a third successive year during the meeting at the Hilton Hotel, Bournemouth.

She said the Dorset Business Awards would return as an “even better event experience”.

She added: “I truly believe that for the chamber, its members and the Dorset business community at large, the future still holds wondrous possibilities if we can work together, support one another and lead the way as the dynamic forward thinking business leaders that we are.”

More details of the revamped awards will be announced later but are likely to include changes to judging and the awards night.

A major conference focusing on business issues, such as sustainability and technology, will be held in the same week with keynote speakers and expert panels.

The week will also include an exhibition for companies to network, showcase their services and products, and celebrate the county’s successes.

Other plans for the year ahead include a Future Leaders Forum for people under 30, an inclusivity and diversity forum and the Dorset Apprenticeship Awards as well as progression of the county’s Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and its environmental, social and governance (ESG) support.

The meeting was followed by a raffle which raised £1,265 for the Faithworks charity, which helps people affected by homelessness, food poverty, debt, addiction and lone parenting.

Guests also donated hundreds of items – including food, socks and toiletries – for the chamber’s Festive Food Bank for Faithworks to distribute across Dorset.

Mr Girling said: “It was another hugely successful AGM and Christmas lunch with a staggering amount raised for Faithworks and hundreds of generous donations for the food bank.

“Our deepest thanks go to everyone who donated items and prizes, and bought raffle tickets. Our festive food bank remains open until December 14 for anyone who still wants to help.”

The AGM voted for Tony Brown to continue as vice-president. Honorary treasurer Stephen Mills – the longest serving board member in the chamber’s 70 year history – stepped down after 19 years to be replaced by his fellow Mazars partner Lesley Fox.

Long service awards also went to former presidents Paul Tansey and Simon West in recognition of their commitment and support for the chamber.