Family-run businesses across the county are set to gain recognition at the 2017 Dorset Business Awards.

PFK Francis Clark is on the hunt to find the most innovative and successful family firm to be crowned winner of its Family Business Award.

The award promotes and recognises some of the best achievements of Dorset-based, family owned businesses and the impact they have made on the business community. Nominations can be made by the business itself, a customer, supplier or employee.

Last year’s award winner, Blandford-based Trimetals Ltd, has been established for 50 years with three generations of one family working for it. It is also reportedly Europe’s leading producer of quality metal garden storage sheds.

Commenting on the win, Ben Smith, general manager at Trimetals Ltd said: “We are very proud of this achievement.

“In addition to the significant morale boost for all our staff, the award win genuinely has helped with promotion, marketing and consumer confidence in our company.

‘‘I would strongly encourage any local family business to enter the awards and spend time considering your application, taking the time to detail the unique services and advantages your company offers. You have a significant award to gain and nothing to lose, so just go for it.’’

Nick Love, partner at PKF Francis Clark, said: “As a business we are so passionate about supporting family businesses. Over the years that we have sponsored this award we have continually been impressed by the diversity and strength of the entries for our category.

‘‘Across the UK two thirds of businesses are family owned employing more than 12 million people and contributing about 20 percent of UK government revenues.

"It’s not easy running any business, let alone a family one, so this award is our chance to recognise the achievements and contributions of some amazing Dorset-based family firms.’’

Entrants for the PKF Francis Clark Family Award should include details of the following:

Financial performance of the business in the last three years

Number of generations the business has survived

Family involvement in the business in terms of numbers and generations

Involvement with the local community

Succession plans

Uniqueness

Nominations from a customer, supplier or employee are welcomed, but the family business must submit the entry form.

The awards, in association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo, are free to enter. Entrants can submit an entry via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk prior to the closing date for entry on Sunday, September 3. Entry is open to all companies which are based in Dorset with a BH or DT postcode.

For further information about the Awards, sponsorship opportunities or to reserve tickets for the Gala Dinner which will take place at the Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday, November 23, contact Stuart Dixon on 01202 714810.