Rochdale is gearing up to host its highly anticipated Business Awards at the historic Rochdale Town Hall in just a few months – and businesses are being encouraged to submit their entries.

This year’s ceremony will welcome 300 guests to indulge in a sophisticated affair complete with a drinks reception, sumptuous three-course meal, and captivating entertainment.

Supported by long standing sponsors such as Hopwood Hall College, Jackson Jackson Ltd, and Molesworths among others, the awards showcase the enduring commitment of local businesses to fostering economic growth and innovation.

This year, a new category has been added for ‘Independent Hospitality or Retail Business of the Year’. This award aims to spotlight the invaluable contributions of businesses enhancing Rochdale’s appeal as a vibrant destination for leisure and exploration.

Entrepreneurs and businesses within the borough are now encouraged to seize this opportunity by submitting entries across nine categories. These include recognitions for excellence in innovation, customer service, and community impact, reflecting Rochdale’s diverse and thriving business landscape.

With applications now open, the Rochdale Business Awards beckon the area’s brightest talents to step forward and claim their place among the borough’s esteemed business elite. This year promises not only to honour past successes but also to inspire future achievements, reinforcing Rochdale’s standing as a dynamic hub of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.

• Business of the Year – Turnover more than £5m
• Business of the Year – Turnover less than £1m – £5m
• Business of the Year – Turnover less than £1m
• Business Person of the Year
• New Business of the Year
• Apprentice of the Year
• Apprentice Employer of the Year
• Community Engagement
• Independent Hospitality or Retail Business of the Year

Tom Mathew, Dunster’s Farm commercial director who won Business of the Year (turnover more than £5 million) in 2023 said of their win: “Winning the Rochdale Business of the Year award has been a tremendous honour for us. The recognition not only boosts our profile in the area, but supports our company’s growth, given that 75% of our team members are local.

The award also reinforces our commitment to supporting the local community. At Dunsters Farm, it’s in our DNA to contribute to the development of the communities we serve. Awards like this keep us at the top of our game, motivate the team and most importantly, elevates all business – right here in Rochdale.”

Carol Hopkins, chair of the business awards steering group said: “The awards ceremony is a special night in the business calendar and we are incredibly grateful to have the loyal support of our sponsors, but what makes the night such a success are the variety of companies who enter and are shortlisted for an award. Hearing their stories and having their achievements recognised by the local business community is something we all look forward to.”

There’s still plenty of time to submit an entry before Friday 30 August. The online application form and criteria for each of the nine categories can be found on the Rochdale business awards website www.rochdalebusinessawards.co.uk.