The search is on to discover Dorset's finest company.

The 2017 Dorset Business Awards are now open for entries and co-sponsors of the Company of the Year Award, Lester Aldridge and Santander, are joining forces once again to search for Dorset businesses which fit the criteria to be named the county's premier company.

Entrants need to demonstrate an outstanding financial track record, with strong sales growth and a commitment to increasing profitability. The winning company is likely to be a leader in its own market with dedication to excellence in products and its services. A dynamic approach to quality should also be displayed along with strategic thinking, dedication to innovation and the wider economy.

Current title holder, Parkeon Transportation, impressed judges by demonstrating an impressive turnover and profitability, with sales growing due to the successful introduction of new products and some major contract wins which has seen its systems being delivered in cities from Sydney to Cape Town.

Commenting on last year’s win, Owen Griffith, managing director of Parkeon Transportation, said: ‘‘We were absolutely delighted to have been selected as the winner of the 2016 Company of the Year Award. It was a greatly appreciated recognition of the creativity and hard work that is carried out by our team of incredibly talented people.

‘‘Since winning this award we have continued to innovate and have won significant new orders in the UK and overseas. I would therefore encourage other businesses to enter the awards, it is a great way to celebrate success and to recognise the people who make it happen. My main tip for any business considering entering is to focus on your purpose and strategy, showing how that translates into benefits for your customers, your employees and the wider community.’’

Grant Esterhuizen, partner and head of commercial group at Lester Aldridge, added: “Lester Aldridge is pleased to continue our co-sponsorship of the coveted Company of the Year Award at the Dorset Business Awards 2017. There is a wealth of hidden talent within the county and the Dorset Business Awards shine a light on this. Providing a platform for companies to promote themselves is key for continued growth within the area and something we at Lester Aldridge are keen to endorse given our strong regional ties.”

Mark Robertson, relationship director in Santander’s corporate and commercial banking team in Dorset, said: ‘‘Over several years of co-sponsoring this award, we have helped to identify and recognise local businesses that are making a positive impact on the region and further afield. This could be through strong financial performance, innovation, excellent customer service, new product development and first class training or development of their staff.’’

In association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo, the awards are also backed by Wave 105 and are free to enter.

Entrants can submit an entry via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk prior to Sunday September 3.

Entry is open to all companies which are based in Dorset with a BH or DT postcode and membership of DCCI is not required to enter.

For further information call 01202 714810.