From amongst the stars of the Leicestershire Business Awards on Friday 23rd April it was bespoke vehicle conversion company Bott Limited which shone brightest, winning the prestigious title of Leicestershire Business of the Year 2010. The award sponsored by Business Link, was a “fitting tribute to a loyal and skilled workforce” said managing director Kevin Woodward.

Bott Ltd employ over 300 staff in Leicestershire, nearly half of the entire workforce of the European Group.  Renowned in their industry for innovation and product quality, it speaks volumes that the business recognises its location here in Leicestershire as a key component to its achievements.

A proud Kevin Woodward commented, “We’ve made significant investment during the last few years, expanding the company to enhance our service and product offerings, as well as continually developing our employees’ skills.  The plans we’ve implemented will ensure our continued success for years to come and we’re delighted that our dedication and commitment has been recognised in our home county”

Stephen Woolfe, Senior Partner at Harvey Ingram and Chief Judge commented "

“Bott impressed on so many levels.  The management team have demonstrated excellent working harmony and dedication and are deeply committed; this is the holy grail for successful management teams and they are reaping the rewards.  Well done”

The Sales and Marketing Award, sponsored by De Montfort University, went to Imago Limited, the commercial arm for Loughborough University. Imago impressed the judges with the almost scientific accuracy of their research and marketing strategy and the sheer power of their sales and marketing functions.  Emma Boynton, Head of Sales and Marketing for Imago said “As a leading hotel and conference centre the strength of our strategy is a major part of our continued achievements.  We’re over the moon to have won and to join the ranks of other high profile winners”

Bott Limited were delighted to achieve a double victory on the night by winning the Investing in Leicestershire Award, sponsored by Leicestershire County Council.  The award recognises the company’s commitment to the county who in difficult economic conditions could have moved their operation but chose to develop their success whilst staying put in Leicestershire.

The Success Through People Award, sponsored by Leicester Tigers this year rewarded Mattioli Woods, the pensions company founded in a garage in 1991.  A key strategy of the company is to invest in local graduates and their commitment to mentoring and nurturing talent has helped them achieve a substantial reputation for quality in their market.

3M Health Care Limited beat stiff opposition to win the Contribution to the Community Award, sponsored by Ashfield In2Focus.  The company who originally invented the inhaler have been a breath of fresh air to Leicestershire through their various community projects.  Staff of the company have one day off for community work and it is hard not to see the results of their achievement in this. 

Paul Baker of Bakers Waste won the Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by Viking Direct.  Mr Baker set up the business ten years ago as a sole trader, today the company boasts nearly 2000 clients, and has expanded its operations to incorporate an Environmental and Health & Safety Division offering environmentally responsible alternatives to landfill and the expansion of recyclable materials.

Commenting on his award he said, “This is fantastic recognition not only for me but for the hard work, dedication and commitment of my fantastic team.  It has taken a decade of investment and hard work to achieve this and further motivates me to drive the company and the industry forward”.

Office Twelve were delighted to win the New Business Award, sponsored by Harvey Ingram LLP.  Office Twelve create award winning interiors for major brands such as Next, Nike and Virgin Holidays.  The company impressed the judges with their focus and passion for quality at every level of the business. 

Judge John Astill said of Office Twelve “Successfully breaking into this tough market in such difficult times shows real skill and their focus on Leicestershire suppliers impressed us greatly”.

An ecstatic Gina Mula MD of Office Twelve said “this is a fantastic achievement for us and we are delighted, staying creative and enjoying our work is everything.  These are exciting times for us and this is only the beginning.”

To view a video of highlights from the Awards evening please visit www.bizawards.co.uk from May onwards.  For further information about getting involved in next year’s Awards please contact Katie at WOW Effect Ltd on 0845 1302866 or email katie@woweffect.co.uk.