IT'S now or never for Somerset businesses, with just a week to go before the entries close for the 2015 Somerset Business Awards.

Businesses are being encouraged to finalise and submit their applications for the 2015 Somerset Business Awards, with entry closing on Friday, August 21, at 5pm.

The Somerset Business Awards have an impressive reputation for celebrating success within the county and annually recognise and celebrate outstanding businesses, employees and working processes.

Winners and finalists often experience an increase in sales, profits and customer loyalty as a direct result of being involved in the Awards.

Speaking at the recent Profiting from the Awards breakfast workshop, Jerome Timbrell from C2 Safety discussed the importance of the application process and involving all members of the team.

He said: “The whole process was a hugely beneficial team building exercise for us and encouraged the management board to recognise and celebrate the firm’s achievements and successes.

"Being shortlisted, and winning, a Somerset Business Award has been incredible for our reputation, and as a result more customers know who we are and want to work with us. I highly recommend entering.”

One of the most important and popular dates in the county’s business calendar, the Somerset Business Awards’ glittering black tie dinner will be hosted on Friday, October 23 at its new, larger venue – Wellsprings Leisure Centre in Taunton.

The Somerset Business Awards are free to enter and businesses must nominate themselves, with the option of 14 different categories. The awards are sponsored by a variety of Somerset businesses from the county’s vibrant business community, including main sponsor, Albert Goodman – returning for the fifth consecutive year.

To enter and for further information, please visit www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk.

Follow @SomBizAwards on Twitter for all the latest news and updates, using #SBA2015.