Year on year a record number of entries have signified the BIBAs as “the one they all want to win” and this year is no exception. Applications for the competition have surpassed all expectations with final numbers amounting to 964. Although slightly less than the record of 1079 back in 2011, organisers are delighted that individual companies applying for the BIBAs has reached a record high.

Babs Murphy, Chief Executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce said: “This year we have seen a significant increase in the number of Businesses applying for the BIBAs but clearly they are being more selective in the number of categories they are entering. The response from our business community has been tremendous and its testament to all of those who have applied.

“The BIBAs are seen as a natural part of our overall business support programme and reflects our obligation to recognising the very best of business operating in the global market place. We are eager to celebrate not only achievements, but business values, vision, strength, and a will to build lasting success.

“Businesses recognise that winning a BIBA shows that they really have made it to the top and with just sixteen exclusive BIBAs up for grabs this year, the race is on to be amongst the winners and become the proud recipient of a handcrafted limited edition BIBA trophy”.

The 2013 BIBAs are supported by a star line up of sponsors. The extent of this support has helped the BIBAs to be the most recognisable and important endorsements of corporate and individual achievement in Lancashire.

Over the past two weeks applications have gone through two separate judging sessions. The shortlists in each category are now complete and those successful candidates having been invited forward to the first interview sessions. Those succeeding to come through the first interview session will be invited back for a further interview later in the year.

Babs continued: “The caliber of applications this year is exceptional and I expect the BIBA judges will have their work cut out during the selection process”.

The exciting culmination of the BIBAs will take place at the glittering awards ceremony on 20th September. There’ll be the odd surprise or two when the cream of Lancashire Businesses are honoured in true BIBA style with some superb entertainment including star names.