Judging is well under way for Portsmouth Business Excellence Awards

There is just under a month to go until The News’ Business Excellence Awards.

The shortlist is out, judging is under way and readers are busy text-voting for their favourite for the Readers’ Choice award.

Lucy Gleisner, who is a partner and corporate finance lawyer at headline sponsor, law firm Trethowans, has been a key part of the judging process.

She said: ‘It’s been another difficult year of doing it. It’s very difficult to compare everyone in different sectors because they’re not like-for-like and we have always got good competitive industries, but it’s invaluable to listen to the sponsors that have gone to visit the businesses and their views.

‘The night is always a good night, with everyone to share in the business community. It’s a fun night, everyone enjoys themselves and it’s a time to bring their team with them to celebrate. Whether they win their category or not, they have all been shortlisted so they’re all winners in their own right.’

CEO of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, Ross McNally has also been involved with the process.

He said: ‘It’s been very difficult this year, all of them could be considered worthy winners. You could find a reason why they could be considered, so it has made our job much more difficult.

‘From a judges point of view, everyone has been brilliant. It’s been a brilliant experience of talking to the businesses and listening to the stories, it’s been a fun experience. It’s hard work but it puts a spring in your step.’

The black-tie gala night takes place at Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday, February 21 2020.

Now in their 19th year, the awards celebrate the success of businesses and individuals from throughout the Portsmouth area who have achieved great things, with 14 accolades to pick up.

There is also a Readers’ Choice award, which is chosen by readers of The News and can be voted for via text.

For more go to portsmouthbusinessexcellence.co.uk