A record number of entries this year, combined with extremely high quality entrants, has made for a difficult job for judges deciding which businesses would advance as finalists in this year’s Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
The Waikato Chamber of Commerce events and marketing manager Sarah Hogan said this year’s fierce competition only enhanced the prestige of the awards.
“Our awards are going from strength to strength. Coming off a difficult 18 months with a changing world, we are thrilled with the record number of entries and high calibre of contestants.
“For us, it shows the confidence and strength in the Waikato business community.”
Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions the announcement had to be made virtually but the Chamber hoped the 18 finalists will be able to get together and celebrate their achievement with their teams, Sarah said.
Head judge Dr Heather Connelly, Director of Engagement and Executive Education at Waikato University Management School, was impressed with the quality of entrants for this year’s awards.
“As someone who has been engaged for a number of years with the awards, there was something extra special this year, and maybe that is in partly due to having to re-think business due to the global pandemic?
“All the businesses who entered were seriously focused on how they can make a difference to the region, economically, socially and environmentally. As judges, this really made the process even more challenging than previous years.
“We want to thank all the businesses who entered. We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to find out more about the amazing work that you are all doing. To the finalists, a huge congratulations. To those who have not been successful, please take on board the judges’ feedback and enter again. You all make our region a great place to work and live.”
The category winners and the announcement of the Foster Group Supreme Business of the Year will be announced at the Annual Awards Gala Dinner, on November 12 at Claudelands Events Centre. Tickets are now available via the Waikato Chamber of Commerce website.
Hogan said it would be “a busy few weeks” for the finalists now as they worked with Hamilton-based INDx Media to put together their finalist video promoting their business for the Air New Zealand’s People’s
Choice award.
