At their annual awards ceremony held on the 9th July, the prestigious Best Business Awards went to Rain Nutrience Ltd, a food supplement manufacturer based in Dunkeswell, near Honiton .
In these challenging times it was felt more important than ever to recognise those businesses who were adapting, changing and thriving, those that have gone “above and beyond”. This year the judges were particularly looking for businesses and employees that have kept on going throughout lockdown, furloughing and significant changes to customer expectations and government guidelines. Rain Nutrience were felt to be worthy winners by the judging panel for their significant and sustained growth in their chosen markets, their staff focus and their commitment to excellence.
The number of nominations in all 10 categories made it a difficult decision for the judges who were looking at businesses ranging from electric cycles to virtual assistants, training to wellbeing and care. There were some really inspirational stories and many received multiple nominations.
With the awards now in their fifth year, organiser Chris Lorimer said “the awards continue to surprise us each year with the quality of nominations and the breadth of organisations that are recognised. This year has been particularly tough for business but the nominations show that companies, charities and individuals are being resourceful, adaptable, creative and resilient.”
Overcoming the challenge of presenting an awards ceremony with a restricted number in physical attendance and nearly 70 people joining online, the event proved an outstanding success with award winners posting their acceptance speeches via video. Categories were open to businesses based in Somerset, Devon and Cornwall and were sponsored by Griffin Chartered Accountants.
The other category winners were:
Best Employee - Andrea Hodges, Exeter College
Best Employer – Bluegrass Group
Best Online Presence – Paul Smith, Word Gets Around
Best Professional – Joanne Manville Virtual PA
Best Social Impact – Mindmaps Wellbeing
Best Sole Trader – Claire Perry VA
Best Start Up in Difficult Times– Independent Living SW
Most Adaptable Business – Dart Fresh
Top 373 Person – Gill Hayes
A full recording of the event, including winners' acceptance speeches, is available via the link below.