The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are given for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility. Even in smooth trading times, winning a Queen’s Award can be transformative for a business. During this crisis, it could be more valuable than ever.

The awards take place annually and are presented to the winning company(s) by a Lord Lieutenant, one of the Queen’s representatives. Winners also get invited to a royal reception. They are allowed to fly the Queen’s Awards flag at their main offices, and use the official emblem on their marketing materials.

John Wood, Group Director of Liberty Engineering and Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands said: “Although we are currently in the middle of a crisis, life will get better and this award could help your business to recover. Even in normal circumstances, winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise inevitably brings a company great publicity and raises its profile. An award of this calibre establishes credibility and boosts a company’s reputation with its customers, prospects and suppliers.

“On top of all that, a Queen’s Award boosts staff morale as it is a recognition of their achievements, hard work and expertise”.

Tom Westley DL, Chair of the Board said: “The Black Country has a fantastic reputation in business, innovation and manufacturing and now, more than ever, companies across our area are responding to the current pandemic adapting accordingly and planning for the future.

“A Queen’s Award for Enterprise would be a great opportunity for businesses to see that hard-work recognised as well as bringing increased profile and opportunity. I hope that businesses take the time to apply – it is well worth the effort – and look forward to congratulating a host of Black Country companies on their Awards in 2021.”

Award-winning companies receive a Grant of Appointment (an official certificate) and a commemorative crystal trophy, as well as benefiting from press coverage and a boost in credibility with customers and suppliers, often leading to an increase in business. The awards are judged to a demanding level and are valid for five years.