Reynolds reach the National Business Awards Finals

The NATIONAL Business Awards Regional Programme has announced its South of England 2009 finalists and The Reynolds Group has been short listed.

Chief Executive, Emma Reynolds (Swale Entrepreneur of the Year 2008), will go up against nine other finalists in her category this week in a series of presentations before an independent, expert judging panel.

Nominated for the ‘Growth Strategy of the Year Award’, Reynolds face stiff competititon with finalists representing both private and public organisations from the whole of the South (including London, Somerset, Berkshire, Essex, Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Isle of White, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, London, Cambridgeshire, Portsmouth, Cornwall, East Sussex, Milton Keynes and Kent).

The National Business Awards, sponsored by Orange, places particular emphasis on success, innovation and ethical business. The winner in this section will have to demonstrate an organic growth strategy (rather than merger and acquisition activity) that has achieved outstanding levels of sales, profit and market share improvement.

The Reynolds Group is a chain of unintimidating health and fitness clubs throughout Kent (Sittingbourne, Bexley and Rainham) and an award winning training provider.

CEO, Emma Reynolds said: “The continued growth of the Reynolds Group is due to the company’s ability to identify and pursue opportunities. We have taken a market share in a competititve industry, dominated by large corporations and equity firms.

“We are testament that year on year growth and subsequent profits are achievable and are a reflection, not of corporate greed, but a vote of confidence from society that what we offer is valued.”

Philip Forrest, Chairman of Judges, The National Business Awards said: “The entry level of this year’s programme is very encouraging. Entrants have shown both the resilience and optimism that are the hallmarks of UK enterprise. Without exception all had forecast a level of growth for the coming year which appears to indicate that even in the prevailing market conditions, well run, professionally operated organisations are able to develop and implement effective success strategies.”

Paul Tollet, Vice President of Business, Orange UK added: “Nobody can doubt that this is an extremeley difficult period for commerce, however, the National Business Awards provides the opportunity to revive some confidence in UK business through the recognition of our most talented organisations and individuals. This year’s finalists clearly demonstrate the resilience, adaptability and success needed to drive the economy forward.”

More than sixty South of England organisations have been short listed across nine categories. Winners will be unveiled at a glittering gala dinner and awards ceremony in London at the Hilton Park Lane Hotel on 14th July, 2009.

www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk/regionals