Exporter awards a chance to showcase businesses

An awards scheme for exporting in small to medium enterprises has been launched in Dublin.

The DHL Export Awards recognise excellence in the Irish export industry and reward those SMEs that have achieved outstanding success in their exporting efforts.

They also provide SMEs with the opportunity to build profile, enhance their credibility, and break into new markets.

Each year, five companies are shortlisted, with an overall award being presented to the DHL Exporter of the Year.

Founded in 1994, previous winners include Cooley Distillery, Blarney Stone Enterprises, Combilift and Stockbyte.

The 2003 winner Biotrin International Chief Executive Officer, Dr Cormac Kilty said: "The extensive press coverage as result of winning the award has raised our profile significantly.

"The fact that the award is endorsed by DHL, which in itself is a well-known global brand, will also strengthen our brand image and reputation abroad, particularly as we move into new export markets."

Speaking at today's launch, Bernard McCarthy, General Manager, DHL Express, stressed the benefits for companies who enter.

"The awards have recognised over 50 exporters to date and those companies have leveraged the award to enhance their reputation and credibility in local and export markets," Mr McCarthy said.

The judging panel for the DHL Export Awards comprises senior representatives from the Small Firms Association, Enterprise Ireland, the Irish Exporters' Association, the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland and DHL Ireland.