Lancashire businesses have been urged to follow the example of successful firms across the county and start to sell overseas. Paul Stowers, NW Acting Regional Director for the Department for International Trade, said his team remain ready to support firms in Lancashire seeking to export goods and services across the globe. “The government department has […]
How important the judging visit is to your business
Businesses across Lancashire have been urged to get their applications in for one of the county’s leading awards before the end of the week. The deadline for entries to the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, closes on Friday, April 6, with 18 prizes up for grabs to companies and individuals. Alexandra Wood, of law […]
Shout about your victories
Lancashire’s award-winning businesses must use their status to promote their goods and services, a business support expert has said. Maria Coupe, director of Shout Network, said the winners of the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, should look to seek to maximise their award wins to differentiate themselves from their competition. Shout Network is the […]
Don’t leave your application to the last minute
The organisers of one of Lancashire’s leading business awards has explained the process which will happen when it closes for applications on April 6. Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce which runs the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, said entries had been flowing in for this year’s […]
The impact of Brexit with Small Businesses
The Government must now deliver action to deliver what Lancashire’s business community needs as the UK exits the European Union, a leading businessman has said. Norman Tenray, managing director of Longridge-based OBAS UK, said the positive ambition of Prime Minister Theresa May to secure a wide-ranging agreement in the next phase of negotiations needed to […]
FW Capital is sponsoring the BIBA’s
A fund which offers loans to small and medium-sized businesses in Lancashire has become the latest sponsor of one of the county’s leading business awards. The North West Fund for Loans Plus has been confirmed as the sponsor of Manufacturer of the Year of the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs. The Fund is managed […]
How the third sector is so important
A Lancashire business leader has called on the county’s third sector to carry on being “bold and passionate.” Babs Murphy, chief executive at the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said the voluntary sector was “more needed than ever” with austerity measures putting pressure on some communities. She added that voluntary and community groups […]
Judges are trained to the highest level
A special training session will prepare judges at one of Lancashire’s leading business awards to face its applicants later this year. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, is hosting a training session for its judging panels on Thursday, April 12. This will provide the judges with insight in to the awards they will be […]
How the creative industry is booming in the UK
Britain is experiencing a boom in creative entrepreneurship, according to one of Lancashire’s leading creative businesses. Mark Oulson-Jenkins, executive producer at East Lancashire-based RTR TV, said research was showing the creative sector was out-performing others in terms of the number of new firms being set up and jobs being created. The study by Nesta, in […]
‘Heroes of Lancashire must be celebrated’
The heroes of Lancashire’s construction industry must be celebrated by one of the county’s leading business awards, according to a former winner. Lee Stringer, of Fox Brothers, the plant hire and haulage firm which picked up the Construction Business of the Year prize at the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, last year, said the […]
The Service Sector took a downturn in the last quarter
Policy makers must listen to the concerns of the nation’s powerhouse service sector, according to a Lancashire business leader. Tony Raynor, managing director of East Lancashire-based Abbey Telecom, has said business owners in the county had concerns around issues including inflation, interest rates and business rates as they attempt to stimulate growth. The latest Quarterly […]
How important The BIBAs is to the winners
The winners of one of Lancashire’s leading business awards have taken a behind-the-scenes look at the £15.6m training academy of one of the county’s leading companies. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, winners toured the Academy for Skills and Knowledge run by BAE Systems at Samlesbury to see how the company trains hundreds of […]
New awards up for grabs
A new prize up for grabs at one of Lancashire’s leading business awards will recognise the county’s diverse engineering companies. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has introduced an Engineering Business of the Year to the 18 categories up for grabs at this year’s competition. It has also introduced a Transport and Distribution Business […]
The BIBAs has a fresh new look
One of Lancashire’s leading business awards is back with a fresh new look. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, opened for applications today with a refreshed branding including a new logo and website to attract the cream of the county’s business community. The new look has been designed by Freshfield, the Preston-based marketing communications […]
The BIBAs will be back in 2018…
The entrepreneur behind the regeneration of Preston city centre has been handed a lifetime achievement award by one of Lancashire’s leading business awards. Simon Rigby, whose property empire includes the city’s Guild Hall, collected the Lancastrian of the Year award at the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, in front of a sell-out crowd at […]
4 days until ‘The one they all want to win’.
A leading Lancashire business leader has said the county’s business community is a central part of driving the UK economy. Dawn Cheetham, the owner of Commercial Kitchen Services (CKS) and president of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said this week’s Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, would showcase the best the county […]
Smaller businesses need protection
Lancashire’s small businesses need more protection against crippling late payments from their customers, according to a local business leader. Norman Tenray, managing director of Longridge-based builders’ merchants, OBAS UK, said research showing that businesses are owed £14.2 billion by customers who are paying later than their agreed terms was evidence of the problem. The […]
“Lancashire’s business need to shout about their achievements”
Lancashire’s digital businesses need to shout about their achievements to be heard in a crowded market, an industry leader has said. Stephen Hart, director at Lytham-based InterSys Micronics, said the county had a thriving industry of digital businesses which are amongst the most innovative in the region, but are competing against larger clusters in neighbouring […]
Household names confirmed for sellout event
A star of the silver screen and artists who have sold more than 40 million records worldwide will take to the stage for one of Lancashire’s leading business awards next month. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has confirmed the entertainment it has secured for its ceremony will all be household names to the […]
BIBAs Foundation providing opportunities for youngsters
A fund set up by a Lancashire business awards to boost enterprise amongst young people in the county has awarded almost £16,000 in grants. The BIBAs Foundation, set up by the Be Inspired Business Awards, has supported five projects which will boost employability skills, help establish new businesses and provide opportunities for young people. It […]
UK sales weaken for a second successive quarter
The service sector at the heart of Lancashire’s economic must not be damaged at the expense of political wrangling, one of the county’s leading businessmen has said. Tony Raynor, managing director of Blackburn-based Abbey Telecom, said it was crucial that creating “the conditions for business growth” should be put back at the heart of Government […]
The BIBAs celebrating the best of Lancashire
Helping Lancashire firms flourish should be the main aim of the county’s business community, a leading academic has said. Dr John Lonsdale, Director of Innovation and Enterprise , of the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), said its support of the a business development network set up by the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, could give […]
Judges top tips
The final few judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will head out to meet applicants for a second time this week as part of a unique ‘Judges On Tour’ round of judging. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community […]
Lancashire businesses reaping rewards from the BIBAs
Almost £100,000 has already been spent with suppliers by the organisers of one of Lancashire’s leading business awards. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has confirmed it expects to spend around £140,000 by the time of its awards ceremony in September with Lancashire firms benefiting. The awards have suppliers ranging from East Lancashire-based video […]
‘The BIBAs could offer finalists ways to boost their businesses’
The head of a leading North West law firm has hailed a Lancashire business awards for supporting the county’s firms. Daniel Varney, National Practice Group Leader, Business Advisory at Slater and Gordon, said the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, could offer finalists ways to boost their businesses during a unique second round of judging. […]
Judges Top Tips
From June 19, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will head out to meet applicants for a second time as part of a unique ‘Judges On Tour’ round of judging. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community […]
Judges top tips
From June 19, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will head out to meet applicants for a second time as part of a unique ‘Judges On Tour’ round of judging. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community […]
QES showing signs of progression in Lancashire
A leading Lancashire business advisor believes exports can continue to bolster the county’s key manufacturing sector. Ginni Cooper, Corporate Services Director at chartered accountants Moore & Smalley, said the number of firms reporting improved sales overseas was growing and proved products made in the county were in demand. The Quarterly Economic Survey produced by Lancashire’s […]
Judges Top Tips
From June 19, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will head out to meet applicants for a second time as part of a unique ‘Judges On Tour’ round of judging. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community […]
Skills is the key
Ensuring Lancashire has the skills it needs to drive its economy is crucial if it is to continue to thrive, according to the head of one of its top colleges. Dr Lis Smith, Principal and Chief Executive at Preston’s College, said there had been a rise in the number of firms having difficulty recruiting when […]
Top tips from our judges
From June 19, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will head out to meet applicants for a second time as part of a unique ‘Judges On Tour’ round of judging. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community […]
Words from our sponsor
The joining of two highly successful northern businesses has established a new powerhouse in the cleaning, security and facility maintenance sector. Cleanall Services Ltd of Leyland, Preston and Care Facility Management Ltd of Leeds, joined forces to create the new £12m turnover Aston Services Group late last year. Aston Cleaning, Aston Security, Aston Hygiene and […]
The finalists have been announced this morning
Eight businesses are in the running to be named the best in Lancashire at one of the county’s leading business awards. The finalists for the Business of the Year category at the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, have been unveiled today along with those companies and individuals bidding to win its other 17 prize […]
Shale gas industry will boost economy
Francis Egan, CEO of Cuadrilla Resources, which is at the forefront of exploring for shale gas in the county, is convinced that many businesses in the services industry will benefit as the industry develops. He believes that the services which would be created by a thriving shale gas industry would attract supporting industries in engineering […]
Judges Top Tips
As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community to offer some tips on how to prepare to face the BIBAs judges. Here Lisa Edge, of Lancashare, who is chairing this year’s New Business of the Year category, gives her advice… Q.What preparation should a […]
Judges top tips
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
Uclan Professor urging businesses to inspire the next generation
The people at the top of Lancashire’s businesses must inspire the next generation which will power the county’s economy, according to a top university boss. Prof Susan Smith at the University of Central Lancashire, said those individuals running firms could inspire young people starting up in business and those considering whether to take the plunge. […]
Judges Top Tips
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
How important is CSR
A commitment to being a responsible business can give your firm the edge over your competitors, according to a body acting for some of Lancashire’s leading philanthropists. Karen Morris, Community Philanthropy Director at the Community Foundation for Lancashire, said businesses throughout the country were looking to buy from and partner with other firms with a […]
Top tips from our Judges
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
“Allow small businesses in places like Lancashire to prosper and grow”
A Lancashire business leader as urged the winner of next month’s General Election to make £300m of relief to small businesses a priority. Norman Tenray, the managing director of Longridge-based building supplies’ firm, OBAS UK, said the delay to a package promised by the last Government would hurt firms across the county. It had been […]
The BIBAs
Judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business community to offer some tips […]
Judging process looms for applicants.
Businesses from across Lancashire have learnt which will make it through to the first round of judging run by a leading business awards. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, have confirmed the applicants which have made its long list which will begin to face judges later this month in a series of face-to-face interviews. […]
BIBAs Briefs
Judges who will select the winners of this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will be put through a unique training course this week. The panels made up of leading lights from throughout Lancashire will undergo the training this Thursday, May 27, in readiness for the first round of judging which gets underway next […]
Judges Top Tips
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
BIBAs providing Lancashire business with opportunities to shine.
Two suppliers to one of Lancashire’s leading business awards have praised the direct impact it has on the county’s economy. The Networking People (TNP) and The Mad Florists will both be supplying this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, which is expected to spend more than £140,000 with local firms for another year. Lancaster-based […]
BIBAs Briefs
Applicants to one of Lancashire’s leading business awards have been urged to ensure they are prepared to face its judges. The organisers from the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, have confirmed the hundreds of the applications received from throughout the county are now eligible to go forward to the judging rounds. The shortlisted applicants […]
Top tips from our judges
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
Lancashire has a lot to offer
A leading leisure boss has urged Lancashire businesses to rise above the competition to make the most of the growing trend of ‘staycations’. New research has shown a 23.8 per cent rise in the number of British holiday-makers planning UK stays this summer, compared with the same period in 2016. Alison Forshaw, regional manager director […]
BIBAs Briefs
A number of applications from across the North West have had to be rejected as one of Lancashire’s leading business awards eligibility checks its entries. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has received applications from throughout the North West when the awards are only open to firms and individuals which based in Lancashire. Babs […]
Top tips from our Judges
On May 15, the 18 judging panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will meet to select their finalists and winners as part of judging process which has seen them nominated for a national award. As our applicants prepare to face our judging panels, we have asked some leading lights of Lancashire’s business […]
Judges Training: A vital part of the process
One of Lancashire’s leading business awards is running a special training session to prepare its judges to face applicants. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will host the session later this month in readiness for the start of interviews with some of the hundreds of Lancashire’s businesses which have applied for its 18 prize […]
Winners Story
Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means to them. Here Mehfuz Dasu Patel of Pharmalogic Chemists, which picked up the Best Use of IT award at the […]
Final countdown is on
A Lancashire business leader has urged firms across the county to enter one of its leading awards which closes for applications this week. Tony Raynor, the founder and managing director of Abbey Telecom, said firms would get huge benefits from applying for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, which has 18 prizes up for […]
BIBAs Briefs
A textiles company has spoken of how it entered a leading Lancashire business awards as it recovered from damage caused by Storm Desmond. Standfast and Barracks, a fabric printing business based on Caton Road, Lancaster, suffered extensive flooding after the River Lune burst its banks during the storm in December 2015. Nine months later, the firm […]
Winners Stories
Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means to them. Here Debbie Airey, from Country & Commercial Insurance Brokers, which picked up the Micro-Business of the Year at […]
Small business tsar must focus on payments
The new small business tsar being sought by the Government must put late payments at the top of their agenda, according to a Lancashire business leader. Dawn Cheetham, the owner of Blackpool-based Commercial Kitchen Services (CKS), said that nearly half of the UK’s small businesses experienced late payment issues. The Government has said the new […]
Winners stories
Here Chris Morrey, from Natures Aid, which picked up the Exporter of the Year at the BIBAs 2016, tells us his firm’s story… “We actually started our application by attending the boot camp workshop which was held by the BIBAs which gave us some direction as to what we should put in. “Our staff really […]
BIBAs Briefs
A director of a Lancashire cleaning firm has told how it entered a leading business awards to see how it compared against its peers. Alistair Clayton, of Aston Cleaning Services in Leyland, was part of the team which picked up two awards at the Be Inspired Business Awards in 2015. The firm, known as Cleanall […]
DIT urging business to export globally
Lancashire businesses have been urged to follow the example of successful firms across the county and start to sell overseas. Clive Drinkwater, NW Regional Director for the Department for International Trade, said his team remain ready to support firms in Lancashire seeking to export goods and services across the globe. The government department, renamed from […]
Winners Story
Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means to them. Here Mary Stansfield, from Standfast & Barracks, which picked up the Manufacturer Business of the Year at the […]
The best piece of publicity any firm could wish for
A Lancashire business leader has urged businesses and individuals from across the county to enter one of its biggest awards. Norman Tenray, managing director of Longridge-based OBAS UK, has said entering one of the 18 prize categories up for grabs at the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, could be “the best piece of publicity […]
Winners Story
As Lancashire’s longest-standing business awards, the BIBAs has been delivering benefits to firms and individuals across the county since 2008, and every week we will hear from a former winner about how it has helped them. Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why […]
An Economic Boost
Demand for new homes could provide a jobs and skills boost for Lancashire’s economy, according to a local business leader. Alistair Clayton, of Leyland-based Aston Services Group, said research had shown the industry needs to recruit 400,000 people a year to meet the demand of the country’s housing and infrastructure projects. The group is the […]
Aston Services Group
The joining of two highly successful northern businesses has established a new powerhouse in the cleaning, security and facility maintenance sector. Cleanall Services Ltd of Leyland, Preston and Care Facility Management Ltd of Leeds, have joined forces to create the new £12m turnover Aston Services Group. Cleanall Ltd and Care Facility Management Ltd will continue […]
Winner’s Story
As Lancashire’s longest-standing business awards, the BIBAs has been delivering benefits to firms and individuals across the county since 2008, and every week we will hear from a former winner about how it has helped them. Here Alistair Clayton at double winner Aston Services Group, formerly known as Cleanall, which picked up the Service Business […]
To win you have to put the work in
Business leaders across Lancashire have been urged to put their firms through “an MOT” by entering one of the county’s leading business awards. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, is open for applications until the end of March and some of its former winners have spoken of the benefits applying for the awards brought […]
Winners stories
As Lancashire’s longest-standing business awards, the BIBAs has been delivering benefits to firms and individuals across the county since 2008. Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means […]
Creative businesses urged to seize growth opportunities
Lancashire’s creative industries need to take advantage of post-Brexit being laid out by the Government, a local businessman has said. Mark Oulson-Jenkins, Head of Production at RTR Digital, said the Industrial Strategy Green Paper published last month recognised creative businesses as one of five “world-leading sectors.” It has tasked television executive Peter Bazalgette with conducting […]
Winners stories
As Lancashire’s longest-standing business awards, the BIBAs has been delivering benefits to firms and individuals across the county since 2008. Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means […]
Preston’s College proud to support ‘Best Employer’ award
Being a great employer is crucial to having a successful business, according to the Principal of one of Lancashire’s leading colleges. Dr Lis Smith, Principal and Chief Executive at Preston’s College, said that at a time when businesses are battling for the best talent in their industries, being recognised as a good employer was a […]
Winners stories
As Lancashire’s longest-standing business awards, the BIBAs has been delivering benefits to firms and individuals across the county since 2008. Every week we will bring you the thoughts of a former winner of one of our awards about why they applied, what the application process did for them and what being a BIBAs winner means […]
New category introduced to find best family business
Family businesses in Lancashire are the latest to be recognised by one of the county’s leading business awards. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has unveiled the Family Business of the Year as the latest category up for grabs at its awards, which is now open for applications for 18 categories. Slater and Gordon […]
BIBAs briefs
A masterclass delivered by the chairman of Lancashire supermarket chain Booths will kick off an academy of excellence for some of the county’s leading businesses. Edwin Booth, who has led his family-owned firm for 20 years, will deliver the session to the winners of the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, as part of the […]
A word from our sponsor….
Formed in the UK in 2007, Cuadrilla is a privately owned British exploration and production company focussed on discovering and recovering natural resources, primarily natural gas, from shale rock. The company is headquartered in Bamber Bridge, Lancashire. Cuadrilla aims to be a model company for exploring and developing shale gas in the UK. We are […]
It’s the one they all want to win – The BIBAs 2017 is back!
One of Lancashire’s leading business awards is open for applications from firms and individuals across the county. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has opened for applications today with 18 prizes up for grabs to all sizes and sectors of the local economy. Cuadrilla Resources, the firm behind plans to create a multi-billion pound […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2012, when David Andrews, co-founder of Andrews Bowen was named Entrepreneur of the Year. “An achiever,” […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Leon Calverley, Managing Director of Door4, finalists in the Creative Agency of the Year category….. “The application process for the BIBAs gives youthe opportunity as a […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Lantei, finalists in the Medium Business of the Year category….. “Since Lantei began we have always wanted to win a BIBA’s award, it’s the one we haven’t got yet […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2014, when Chelsom collected two awards. Businessman Robert Chelsom described said he was ‘utterly thrilled’ after […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Tapping Tail Antic, finalists in the Micro Business of the Year category….. “The BIBAs initial application made me sit and think about my business and were I had come […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2009, when Juicy Media won the Best Use of Innovation prize…. From the humble beginnings of an […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Ainscough Training, finalists in the Small Business of the Year category….. “The BIBAs’ application process definitely brings benefits to our business, you have to view your […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2013, when Roaming Roosters was named the Green Business of the Year. Innovation, enthusiasm and a […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Festive Lights, finalists in the Small Business of the Year and Best Use of IT categories….. “When you’re so embroiled in day-to-day life as a business, […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2013, when Springhill Care was named the Service Business of the Year. “This is a business […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Deborah Terras, of URPotential, finalists in the Third Sector Business of the Year category….. “The application process gave us the opportunity to reflect on the team’s […]
From the archives….
In the build-up to the ceremony of the BIBAs 2016, we look back at some of the businesses and individuals which have stepped up to pick up the awards’ iconic trophy down the year. Here we look back to 2011, when Lytham-based accountancy firm Danbro collected the Employer of the Year award. When Damian Broughton […]
The journey so far….
As we head towards the ceremony for the BIBAs 2016, we ask some of our finalists about their experience so far through the BIBAs Journey. Today, we hear from Steph Stephenson, of Stephenson’s Dairy, finalists in the Micro Business of the Year category…. “The BIBAs application process really made us focus on our own business […]
The BIBAs
A Lancashire-themed menu will be laid on for guests at one of the leading business awards in the county, according to the chef behind it. Executive chef Paul Rowley said his team at Rowley’s Offsite, which is based at Blackpool FC, said his team was looking forward to serving guests at the Be Inspired Business […]
The BIBAs
The winner of the lifetime achievement prize at one of Lancashire’s leading business awards has been selected. The Lancastrian of the Year prize, the top honour presented by the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has been picked by a panel made up of its former winners. Babs Murphy, Chief Executive of awards’ organisers, the […]
The BIBAs
One of Lancashire’s biggest business awards is already boosting Blackpool’s economy, according to a group which represents firms in the resort. The Blackpool Business Leadership Group (BBLG) said hotels had already seen an upturn in accommodation bookings from guests attending the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, which takes place at the Blackpool Tower on […]
The BIBAs
More than £140,000 has been spent with Lancashire firms by one of the county’s leading business awards, organisers have confirmed. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will hold its annual prize-giving ceremony at the Blackpool Tower next Friday with everything from food and drink to table flowers bought from within the county. It is […]
The BIBAs
Guests at the ceremony held for one of Lancashire’s biggest business awards will get the chance to donate to one of the county’s newest charities this month. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will hold a collection around its sell-out ceremony at the Blackpool Tower next Friday, September 11 to raise funds for its […]
The BIBAs
If being an entrepreneur means to take your own abilities and make a difference, Steve Jackson is a great example. The Preston-based businessman, who picked up the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the BIBAs in 2010, began his career in the scrap metal business and founded a wave of businesses. Whether it is personalised […]
The BIBAs
As one of the biggest nights in Lancashire’s business calendar approaches, organisers behind the Be Inspired Business Awards have revealed the running order of its ceremony. It will commence with a champagne reception served at tables in the Blackpool Tower from 6.30pm on Friday, September 11. Dinner will then be served by Blackpool-based outside caterers […]
The BIBAs
After many years of bringing a major transformation to one of Lancashire’s biggest business names, David Holmes was crowned the Business Person of the Year at the BIBAs in 2010. The director of investment and infrastructure services at FTSE 100-listed defence firm BAE Systems, which employs 10,000 people at its two Lancashire sites, oversaw the […]
The BIBAs
A leading figure at one of the world’s biggest banks has hailed the work of a new charity set up by one of Lancashire’s leading business awards. Ian Bakewell, Senior Investment Director at Investec, the leading specialist banking and asset management group, said the work of the new BIBAs Foundation would help inspire the entrepreneurs […]
The BIBAs
‘A real feather in our cap’ was how Jeremy Gorick described seeing his Liquid Plastics business collect the top prize at the BIBAs in September 2008. The company collected Business of the Year at the awards held in front of a bumper crowd at the Blackpool Tower. Mr Gorick said: “When we add this to […]
The BIBAs
Lancashire’s medium businesses can play a major role in boosting the county’s economy, according to one of its largest employers. Nick Jones, Stakeholder Relations Manager at nuclear fuel firm Westinghouse, said the influence of the sector to power economic prosperity could not be underestimated. He was part of the Medium Business of the Year judging […]
The BIBAs
The team behind one of Lancashire’s leading business awards has been contacted by a character claiming to be its very own ‘Stig’. Dressed in a golden mask similar to the famous trophy of the Be Inspired Business Awards and wearing a golden boiler suit and boots, the Stig has been appearing across the county in […]
The BIBAs
Innovation, enthusiasm and a greener way of thinking was behind the success of East Lancashire firm Roaming Roosters at the BIBAs in 2013. The business which runs an online butchers and a farm shop bistro serving produce from its sustainable farm picked up the Green Business of the Year prize at the ceremony. On its […]
The BIBAs
The team behind one of Lancashire’s biggest business awards have started work on preparations for its prize-giving ceremony. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, will bring a sell-out crowd to the Blackpool Tower on Friday, September 11. Babs Murphy, chief executive of awards organisers, the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said the […]
The BIBAs
When Damian Broughton and his wife, Helen, stepped onto the stage to accept the Employer of the Year award at the BIBAs in 2011, they had no idea how quick they would be back. Danbro, the Blackpool-based specialist accountancy firm, followed this fantastic win by picking up the prestigious Business of the Year prize. The […]
The BIBAs
Business leaders who are good role models have a crucial role in inspiring the next generation to start-up new firms, according to a Lancashire businessman. Lee Petts, managing director of Remsol which is sponsoring the New Business of the Year category at this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, said the celebrity status around […]
The BIBAs
Three applicants to a fund set up by one of Lancashire’s leading business awards will be receiving grants. The BIBAs Foundation, set up by the awards in partnership with the Lancashire Community Foundation, has assessed a number of applications to the £30,000 cash pot. It was set up to give out grants of up to […]
The BIBAs
From the humble beginnings of an incubator unit at Myerscough College in Lancashire, stepping on to one of the biggest stages in Lancashire meant a lot to Juicy Media. In 2009, the company was among more than 900 entries to the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs), having been shortlisted for the Best Use of Innovation […]
The BIBAs
A waiting list is now in operation after Lancashire businesses ensured the county’s top awards ceremony sold out three months in advance. On Friday, 11th September, firms from across the county will come together at the Blackpool Tower ballroom for the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs), and it is sure to be a special night […]
The BIBAs
A host of companies from across Lancashire will once again supply one of the county’s biggest business awards, organisers have confirmed. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has confirmed nine firms have already been appointed to supply its awards which will be held at the Tower Ballroom in the Blackpool Tower on Friday, September […]
The BIBAs
Liz Russell described herself as ‘overwhelmed’ as she was named Lancashire’s top entrepreneur at the BIBAs in 2009. The farmer’s daughter who runs Envirosystems UK, which manufactures animal bedding from recycled materials, collected the prize in front of a sell-out crowd at the Blackpool Winter Gardens. Liz said: “It is a great honour to win […]
The BIBAs
The finalists at one of Lancashire’s most prestigious business awards have been urged to shout about their success. Andy Traynor, of FW Capital which manages one of the North West’s biggest growth capital funds, said those firms through the finals of the Be Inspired Business Awards needed to consider how to use their success to […]
The BIBAs
Business across Lancashire have been literally bending over as they battle to win a coveted trophy. Judges in the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) have toured the length and breadth of Lancashire over the past four weeks as they choose the winners of the awards’ 18 key categories. And this year, businesses have really caught […]
The BIBAs
“This is a business which does not just say it does something, it does it.” Those were the words of BIBAs judge Tony Raynor, managing director of Abbey Telecom, as he presented the Service Business of the Year trophy to Springhill Care at the BIBAs in 2013. It followed a judging process that saw the […]
The BIBAs
The businessman named Lancashire’s top entrepreneur has called for greater support to ensure the next generation of business leaders can flourish. Steve Pearson, the owner of Bamber Bridge-based specialist electronics manufacturer Remvox, won the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the Be Inspired Business Awards in 2014 and is among the nominees for the prize […]
The BIBAs
Lancashire has great leisure businesses in abundance, according to one of the judges which will crown one firm as the county’s best. Neil Mason, commercial director at CommunicorpUK, which runs North West radio station, Smooth Radio, will lead a panel of judges visiting the Leisure Business of the Year nominees for this year’s BIBAs. The […]
The BIBAs
When Bi3 managing director Glen Higson climbed the steps on to the stage at the BIBAs 2012, he was doing so on behalf of every member of his team. The provider of security and customer intelligence services had just been crowned New Business of the Year in front of a sell-out crowd on Avenham Park, […]
The BIBAs
The BIBAs On Tour is now more than half complete, with businesses nominated in 10 of the 18 judged categories having been visited. Still yet to be determined are the winners of the small business, construction business, employer of the year and business of the year. Every year, the judges visit all the finalists to […]
The BIBAs
Businessman Robert Chelsom described said he was ‘utterly thrilled’ after seeing his firm pick up two awards at the BIBAs last year. His Blackpool-based lighting firm, Chelsom, collected the Exporter of the Year and Creative Business of the Year prizes at the awards, which attracted more than 1,200 applications from across Lancashire. It followed the success of […]
The BIBAs
The North West economy would get a £2billion boost if every business in the region selling overseas expanded to one more global market, according to an expert. Clive Drinkwater, regional director at UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) North West, said international trade was key to aiding economic growth and urged businesses exporting to push further […]
The BIBAs
The difficult job of picking a winner for Lancashire’s biggest business awards has been made easier by its judges visiting its finalists, according to organisers. Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said the panels for the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, had been inspired by the visits […]
The BIBAs
The BIBAs has always been known as ‘the one they all want to win’, but for Lancaster firm Fat Media picked up the Excellence in Customer Service prize in 2012 it was the one they wanted to win. They collected the prize in front of a sell-out crowd of more than 1,200 people in Avenham […]
The BIBAs
One of Lancashire’s biggest awards ceremonies is exactly the type of event which Blackpool needs to attract to the resort, according to a group of business leaders. The Blackpool Business Leadership Group (BBLG), a body set up in 2006 to improve communication and relationships between the town’s private and public sector, said the Be Inspired […]
The BIBAs
“When I launched Denwa from my back bedroom, I never expected it would lead to awards like this,” admitted managing director Rob Scott as he took to the stage at the BIBAs 2012 to collect two prizes. His firm, Denwa Communications, based in Barrowford in Pendle, collected the Employer of the Year and the Small […]
The BIBAs
More than two-thirds of tickets for one of Lancashire’s biggest business awards have been sold, organisers have confirmed. The Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) has sold more than 700 tickets for its prize-giving ceremony at the Blackpool Tower in September. Babs Murphy, chief executive of awards organisers, the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: […]
The BIBAs
Judges who will pick the winners of one of Lancashire’s leading business awards have gone ‘on tour’ to visit its finalists. The panel for the Exporter of the Year category at the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) yesterday visited eight firms across the county to select their winner. The visits kicked off of a unique […]
The BIBAs
A group of Lancashire’s leading business figures will select the winner of the lifetime achievement prize handed out by one of the county’s top awards. The Lancastrian of the Year prize, the highest honour awarded by the Be Inspired Business Awards (the BIBAs), will be the 19th trophy handed out at a star-studded ceremony in […]
The BIBAs
The next month will see judges for the Be Inspired Business Awards (the BIBAs) hit the road to visit finalists in each of its 18 prize categories. They will climb aboard a special ‘BIBAs-mobile’ which will take them ‘on tour’ to visit each of the businesses in the running for the awards starting on Monday […]
The BIBAs
“Our greatest achievement.” That is how Alan Pendlewood described his firm’s success in picking up the Small Business of the Year award at the BIBAs back in 2010. The founder of Skelmersdale-based children’s play equipment supplier Pendlewood collected the prize in front of almost 1,000 guests at the Globe Theatre in Blackpool He thanked all the […]
The BIBAs
Eight companies are in the running to be named the best in Lancashire by one of the county’s top business awards. Bamber Bridge-based Conlon Construction and Chemical Innovations, Cleanall Services of Leyland, Preston’s Gold Medal Travel Group and Scorpion Automotive of Chorley are all among the nominees for the prestigious Business of the Year category at […]
The BIBAs
North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce president Norman Tenray has given his advice to businesses who will go before the BIBAs judges in the coming weeks. Mr Tenray said: “Now that the applications for the BIBAS 2015 have closed and the shortlisted companies were advised of their success, we now look forward to the upcoming interviews […]
The BIBAs
A North West investment firm has signed up to sponsor the reception at one of Lancashire’s biggest business awards. Harewood Associates, the Bolton-based property investment business, is sponsoring the reception which kicks-off the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs). It will host its annual prize-giving ceremony at the iconic Blackpool Tower on Friday, September 11 when […]
The BIBAs
Helping start-up businesses to flourish in Lancashire should be a key vow of the General Election campaign, according to one Lancashire businessman. Lee Petts, managing director of Remsol, said that new firms were the lifeblood of a thriving economy yet had been barely mentioned by any of the major parties with just a week remaining […]
The BIBAs
A Lancashire business leader has hailed the hundreds of businesses which have entered one of the county’s leading awards. Denys Smith-Hart, the founder of IT firm InterSys Micronics, said the businesses bidding to pick up the 18 prizes on offer at this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, were testament to the diversity of […]
The BIBAs
A number of leading figures from Lancashire’s business community have been unveiled on the judging panels for one of the county’s leading awards. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, has hand-picked judges from a range of industries across the county to select the winners of the 18 prizes it will hand out at a […]
The BIBAs
Almost a third of entries to one of Lancashire’s business awards came from the Fylde, according to organisers. The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, which organises the Be Inspired Business Awards, has revealed 29 per cent of its entries came from companies in the district, including Blackpool. A further 19 per cent of entries […]
The BIBAs
Chemical Innovations of Bamber Bridge was the winner of the Business of the Year category at the BIBAs 2014. ‘Doing the right things’. That is how Chemical Innovation’s managing director Aissa Benarous described his business’ path to winning one of Lancashire’s most prestigious business awards. The company collected the Business of the Year award at […]
The BIBAs
What are the three main qualities you look for in any business/individual you visit as part of the BIBAs judging process? When visiting any business/individual as part of the BIBAs judging process I always look for clear evidence of the claims made in the submission. I also look for evidence that this is a great […]
Recce to the Tower
The team behind organising one of Lancashire’s biggest celebrations of business success has visited the iconic venue which will host its prize-giving ceremony in September. The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce events team, which brings the annual Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, to life have gone for a ‘recce’ visit to the […]
Sifting process
Entries from outside Lancashire have had to be rejected from one of the county’s top awards, according to its organisers. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, received a number of applications from across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and even West Yorkshire before the recent deadline for applications to its 17 awards categories. The awards attracted […]
What can the judges expect?
Judges for one of Lancashire’s leading business awards have been told to be ready to ask the important questions to the county’s top firms. Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce which organises the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, said it had devised a training programme for its […]
A word from our Sponsors
Two new sponsors have signed up to back Lancashire’s premier business awards, organisers have revealed. IT networking specialists InterSys has signed up to sponsor the E-Business of the Year category at the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, with the Community Foundation for Lancashire also signed up as a sponsor. Intersys director Stephen Hart, who […]
Supporting our local business community
Lancashire’s biggest business awards has again pledged to back local suppliers. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, is sourcing almost everything from the cars to deliver guests to the prize-giving ceremony to the table decorations for the big night from local suppliers. It is also hoping to get 60 per cent of the 900-strong […]
The BIBAs Bootcamp
This interactive workshop uses a combination of presentation media, activities and group discussion to give business owners and marketing teams the knowledge and confidence to maximise the benefits of entering The BIBAs before 11th April 2014. As these awards are the most highly coveted in the region, it is critical to ensure your business has […]
New Feature for the BIBAs 2014
Organisers have promised to unveil a major new feature at September’s BIBAs prize-giving ceremony. The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce said it is working with sponsor Mad Science North West to launch the new feature when the awards opens at the iconic Blackpool Tower in September. Chamber chief executive Babs Murphy said she […]
LUMS Sponsors New Category
Lancaster University Management School has signed up to become sponsor of one of the BIBAs’ newest award categories. It will sponsor the Micro-Business of the Year category which is open to businesses employing up to 10 people. Ellie Hamilton, associate dean for enterprise at the university, said the university was delighted to help celebrate the […]
Margaret Mason
One of Preston’s best-known businesses has been hired to guarantee a spectacular reception of guests attending the BIBAs ceremony in September. Margaret Mason, the florist who has traded on Friargate in the city for more than 50 years, has been appointed to dress the tables at our ceremony at the iconic Blackpool Tower. Babs Murphy, […]
A word from our Sponsors – OBAS
“The BIBAs has a special place in my heart as a former winner of the awards. “This success has had such a huge impact on our business, it gave us a catalyst to expand our business and gave us an endorsement which won us the trust of the business community of Lancashire. “The BIBAs celebrate […]
The BIBAs Hall of Fame. Philip McIvor – Farmhouse Biscuits
When Philip McIvor stood on stage to accept his Lancastrian of the Year award at the 2011 BIBAs, he told the audience he and his wife, Dorothy, had been in business 50 years. He joked: “We are started out with nothing, and now we’ve got twice as much!” However, the founder of Farmhouse Biscuits, the […]
A Word From Our Sponsors
“The Entrepreneur of the Year award celebrates those nominees who, with guile, fierce ambition and steady nerve have navigated the choppy economic times of the past few years to prosper. “Grant Thornton has a deeply ingrained belief in and understanding of entrepreneurism, entrepreneurs are at the heart of our local target market and we thrive […]
New Categories Announced for 2014
Three new prizes are up for grabs at Lancashire’s premier business awards which are now open for applications. Organisers of the Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, have confirmed the annual prize-giving will include categories for Construction Business of the Year, Micro-Business of the Year and Leisure Business of the Year. The new categories mean […]
Interested in Judging?
The announcement of the new selection process follows the launch of a major research project between the BIBAs and Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) to set new standards for its judging process. This will ensure that a robust judging process becomes the DNA of the BIBAs’ and continues to raise its status as one of […]
Fairbanks Environmental
Bob Conlin, Managing Director of Fairbanks Environmental said “We were thrilled to have been recognised with this award in 2013. The night was very special for all of the Fairbanks team who attended the Awards dinner and it made us realise what stiff competition we faced from so many other outstanding businesses in our region. […]
A Word from our Sponsors
“Superfast Lancashire is bringing high speed fibre broadband to 97 per cent of the county by the end of next year so we know all about going the extra mile. “You can work smarter, faster and better with superfast broadband. “It will help you improve productivity and use your resources more effectively, so it is […]
Major Research Project
A major research project aimed at raising the standard of one of Lancashire’s leading business awards has been completed. The Be Inspired Business Awards, the BIBAs, commissioned the study by researchers from the Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) to raise the standards of the annual prize-giving, which opens for applications on Tuesday, January 14. It […]