KM Group and KCC celebrate Kent business excellence
Winners of the first ever Kent Excellence in
Business Awards (KEiBA), staged and
produced by Kent County Council and KM Group
(formerly Kent Messenger Group), celebrated their success last
night (Thursday) at a sparkling event at Leeds Castle.
Eleven businesses and individuals were
announced as category winners at the
sold out gala evening after a tough judging process whittled down
almost 200 entries and 27 finalists. Each received a
specially created glass trophy, designed by renowned Kent glass
artist Annie Ross. It’s hoped that the awards will also boost
staff morale and help attract new staff. Winning an award will also
help businesses raise their profile in Kent.
Kevin Lynes, Kent County Council Cabinet
Member for Regeneration and Economic Development said “KEiBA is set
to become the key business event of the year in Kent and these
awards were an important opportunity for businesses to celebrate
their success and network – especially during these difficult
economic times. It was fantastic to see almost 500 people at the
awards last night and we’re already looking forward to supporting
more businesses with these awards next year.”
Geraldine Allinson, Chairman of KM Group, said
"These awards are a great way to recognise our county’s business
success and to celebrate their excellence. This first year
has shown the immensely high standard of businesses and individuals
in Kent, and we hope that KEiBA will help encourage and attract
even more business talent for the county.”
KEiBA aims to recognise and reward excellence
in Kent and Medway businesses of all sizes as well as individual
awards.
KM Group has a dedicated
KEiBA special report on its
KentOnline website and the next issue of the
Kent Business publication will, to be published in print and
online on July 10, will feature extensive coverage of the event
proceedings.
(July 3, 2009)