Member Article

New South Tyneside businesses urged to go for awards

New businesses are invited to nominate themselves for this year’s South Tyneside Business Awards.

Firms which have been operating in the Borough for less than two years are being encouraged to put themselves forward for the Newcomer of the Year Award.

Sean Kilmartin, owner of Tavistock Retro in South Shields and White Lead in Hebburn who clinched the title in 2013, said: “Our customers, especially the regulars, were really supportive when we entered the awards last year.

“Winning the award helped raise the profile of the business; we’ve got the trophy on display in the restaurant and we’re very proud of it.

“It was a real morale boost and testament to the hard work put in by all the staff.”

Sean now employs over 60 staff between the two restaurants.

He added: “I used what we did at the Tavistock as a blueprint for success at the second restaurant.”

The award is open to any business which has been operating for less than two years, as of January 1, 2014.

The judges will consider what sets the business apart from its competitors, its significant achievements, potential for growth and other factors.

Richard Ord, owner of Colman’s, which is sponsoring this year’s Newcomer of the Year award, said: “We’re delighted to be involved in the South Tyneside Business Awards, which are a great way of recognising and celebrating the achievements of businesses in the borough.

“I’d like to wish all this year’s entrants the best of luck.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by South Tyneside Council .