The EADT Business Awards 2024 finalists have been announced, and the winners will be announced soon. The title of Suffolk Business of the Year, sponsored by Sizewell C and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, will be chosen from all other category winners by the judges.

The Suffolk Business of the Year award is a non-entry category, with the winners from all the other categories entered automatically and the overall winner hand-selected by the judges.

The winner of this award will be an organisation that has achieved outstanding things in the last 12 months, standing as an example of the passion and innovation that is evident throughout the Suffolk business community as a firm that the county can be proud of.

The judges will assess the finalists’ brand profiles within their customer audience, as well as their financial standing, how effectively they conduct community relations and their efforts to understand and reduce their environmental impact.

East Anglian Daily Times: Steven Carroll, supply chain engagement lead at Sizewell CSteven Carroll, supply chain engagement lead at Sizewell C (Image: Sizewell C)

“As in previous years, we will be looking for businesses to demonstrate significant impact in the county,” said Steven Carroll, supply chain engagement lead at headline sponsor Sizewell C.

“As well as operating a great business, they will have to show how they have created social value.”

Nick Evans, UK site and sales director at Treatt and vice-president of headline sponsor Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said that he will be looking for firms that exhibit “exceptional achievements” across the board, from brand identity to sustainability.

“A holistic approach to success, where the company’s impact extends beyond financial metrics, will truly grab my attention as a judge,” he said.

The theme of this year’s EADT Business Awards is sustainability, and so the Suffolk Business of the Year winner should exemplify the awareness and proactivity that is key for today’s businesses when building an effective sustainability strategy – acting as an inspiration for local firms looking to do the same.

East Anglian Daily Times: Nick Evans, UK site and sales director at Treatt and vice-president of Suffolk Chamber of CommerceNick Evans, UK site and sales director at Treatt and vice-president of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce (Image: Nick Evans, Treatt)

“Sustainability is paramount for businesses,” said Mr Evans. “It’s not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for long-term viability.

“Embracing sustainability enhances resilience, attracts conscientious consumers and positions businesses as responsible stewards. Those attuned to sustainable practices are better poised for enduring success in an evolving business landscape.”

Mr Carroll added: “Social value is an ever-increasing requirement within any supply chain. It demonstrates that businesses are thinking about their impact both on the planet and their community.

“Putting something back will be key in judging this year’s winner.”

Winning this prestigious award will also bring a range of benefits for 2024’s Suffolk Business of the Year. Mr Evans said that the title “serves as a validation of their outstanding accomplishments over the past year, enhancing brand recognition and fostering a positive reputation within Suffolk”.

He also said that the recognition from “such a distinguished accolade” can open new doors to local firms.

In line with the EADT Business Awards 2024’s overall theme, Mr Carroll said that winning this award will “show potential clients and suppliers that they are dealing with a sustainable business that lives and breathes its company values”.

The winners of the EADT Business Awards 2024 will be announced at an award ceremony at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, Ipswich on Thursday, July 4. For more information, please visit eadtbusinessawards.co.uk

To find out more about all finalists, please click here.