BUSINESSES with a prominent social media presence are being encouraged to enter the Best Social Media Marketing award category in this year’s Dorset Echo Industry Awards.

Sponsored by Skyline, Weymouth College, HIX and Langham Wines, the awards will see the best businesses in Dorset come together to celebrate their achievements.

And we want more businesses from the west of the county to enter this year.

The Best Social Media Marketing award is sponsored by Sherrens and last year Bridal Reloved were chosen as the category winner.

Clive Garman from Sherrens said: “I have decided to sponsor Best Social Media Marketing Award as it current and gives any business the potential advantage on smart devices on the move.

“The application process for these awards can provide you with a valuable opportunity to properly appraise your business.

“All too frequently, we find ourselves spending to much time in the business and not on the business. Winning, of course, brings its own advantages. The Dorset Echo Industry Awards can generate significant amounts of publicity, and this can have a direct and dramatic impact on your business.

“Just as importantly, winning a business award clearly differentiates you from your competitors, and can provide a real competitive advantage when seeking or retaining customers.”

The Industry Awards include the following categories:

Best Overall Retailer (sponsored by Fleetline)

Best Customer Service Provider (sponsored by the Dorset Echo)

Best Social Media Marketing (sponsored by Sherrens)

Best Business Development or Innovative Idea (sponsored by WPCC)

Best New Business (opened in the last two years, sponsored by Woods)

Best Contribution to Local Tourism (sponsored by Pengillys)

Best Product or Service (sponsored by Atlas)

Best Community Engagement Business (sponsored by Active Mobility)

Best Apprenticeship Employer (sponsored by Weymouth College)

Best Dining Provider (sponsored by Brewery Square)

Best Woman in Business (sponsored by Permanent Makeup by Claire Louise)

Businesses from the DT postcode sector can be nominated by sending 100 to 250 words by e-mail to debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk The closing date for nominations will be Monday, May 1.