Judging has now taken place in the 2015 Cheshire Business Awards where our panel had the difficult task of deciding on the finalists.

Over the next three weeks we will be revealing the finalists while we prepare for the awards ceremony.

Dave Furnival, director of business banking at NatWest, sponsor of the Business of the Year 11-50 employees, and member of the judging panel, said: “We are delighted to support the Cheshire business community through the 2015 Cheshire Business Awards.

Cheshire Business Awards 2015

“There are some excellent, growing businesses in Cheshire doing great things to develop the local economy, expanding into new and often overseas markets, investing in the development of their people and supporting local charitable causes.

“This year we are sponsoring the business of the year (11 to 50 employees) category as part of NatWest’s commitment to supporting businesses beyond banking. The category showcases how businesses across the county are impacting the growing economy.

“I’ve had the opportunity to judge some of the applications this year and the standard is very high, which is a testament to the great businesses in the community.

“The Cheshire Business Awards is a wonderful way to acknowledge their achievements and we look forward to celebrating with the nominees.”

Here are the shortlists of companies featured in the first tour categories:

Start Up Award, sponsored by Cheshire West and Chester Council, in association with Blue Orchid:

Bexy Boo

JG Creative

The Contemporary

Business of the Year (up to 10 employees), sponsored by ScottishPower:

Footsqueek Ltd

Zippy Baby Limited

Staycold Export Ltd & holding company ESP Venture

Business of the Year (11 to 50 employees), sponsored by Nat West:

Complete Sports Solutions

Direct Food Ingredients Ltd

Reckless

Business of the Year (over 50 employees), sponsored by Metronet (UK) Ltd:

People Potential Possibilities

Encirc Group

ITC Luxury Travel Group

Winners will be revealed at our awards ceremony and dinner hosted by TV news presenter Lucy Meacock in the magnificent Chester Cathedral on Friday, October 2. To join us to find out who wins contact the events team on 01244 606472 or email enquiries@cheshirebusinessawards.co.uk.