BY BECCI KNOWLES
The number of entries and nominations received for the Vending Industry Awards has set a new record. Organised by the publisher of Vending International magazine, Datateam Business Media – in partnership with the AVA -the success of the inaugural Vending Industry Awards in 2013 seems to have encouraged entrants to go the extra mile in the application process.
Publishing & Event Director Hannah Dedman said: “When we first pitched the idea of the Vending Industry Awards to the AVA in 2012, I don’t think any of us could have predicted the impact it would have. To have welcomed 449 guests – the largest gathering of vending industry professionals in 10 years – was a huge achievement. However, there is no room for complacency and as a team we remain committed to producing a quality event every year.”
Commenting on the standard of entries, Hannah added: “The success of the 2013 event was well documented and it seems to have prompted a very high standard of entries again this time in anticipation of the competition. All of the entrants are ready and willing to battle it out for what has quickly become a highly prestigious group of awards.”
Jonathan Hilder, CEO, AVA said: “I am delighted with the response that we have had from the industry, with at least double the number of entries from the inaugural year. Over 100 guests are already booked in to the awards dinner itself and the night of celebrations we hope will top last years. If you haven’t already made your bookings or need accommodation, please let Niki (Graske, at the AVA), know.
“These awards help all our members showcase the services and products they offer to existing and potential customers and I am sure that the 2013 winners will confirm the benefits gained by being a winner”, Jonathan said.
The initial judging will be taking place shortly and this will provide a shortlist of finalists. The wider industry will then have the opportunity to place their votes for the winners.
“I look forward to welcoming everybody on the 26th June at the Palace Hotel in Manchester”, Jonathan said, “and I trust that I’ll be allowed to go to bed a little earlier this year as I do believe the celebrations last year continued on until breakfast the next day!”
Company awards process
- The judging panel will decide upon 3-5 finalists
- AVA members and the finalists’ customers will then be asked to vote
- The votes will count for 50% of the result, while the judges votes will count for the other 50%
Individual awards process
- The judging panel will reduce the entries to three finalists
- Jonathan Hilder, CEO of the AVA will visit the finalists in the trade and choose the winner
For more information click here.
