THIS year's Nottingham Evening Post Business Awards have attracted many of the county's most successful manufacturing businesses, effectively showcasing the wealth of business talent and potential that our region contributes to this key market sector.
At this year's awards, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has sponsored the Manufacturing category, which recognises the best manufacturing business in the region.
Dene Jones, area director for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking in the East Midlands comments on the bank's support for the awards and explains why the manufacturing category is of particular interest.
He says: "Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands is an important geography for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, with a wealth of successful and growing businesses that run significant operations here. These awards recognise the continued success of these businesses as key contributors to the UK's economic recovery and as local employers.
"At Lloyds Bank, we're committed to helping our business customers achieve success, as this will make the UK economy stronger.
"Similarly, regional awards like this are a great way to recognise business growth and success."
Reflecting on Lloyds Bank's strong connection with the manufacturing sector, he adds: "Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has delivered £700 million to manufacturing firms over the past six months as part of a £1 billion commitment that was set in September 2012. We're now on course to beat the £1 billion commitment target.
"The manufacturing sector is a vital sector to the UK economy and we launched our £1 billion commitment to further support economic growth and jobs that this sector creates. Our sponsorship of the manufacturing award reiterates our continuing support for this important industry sector."
The awards also highlight and reinforce the many different steps being taken to ensure that Nottinghamshire's economic strength continues to grow and develop.
Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking is optimistic for the future of the region and the many businesses that continue to thrive within it.
Dene concludes: "Following the UK economy's emergence from recession, the ongoing pace of recovery in the county is partly dependent on businesses appetite and confidence to invest and, in particular, willingness to consider opportunities with new export markets.
"A strong manufacturing base in Nottinghamshire can help to drive economic success, and at Lloyds Bank, we are keen to encourage manufacturing businesses with strong business plans and sound financial management to make the most of growth opportunities as and when they emerge."
