SOME 42 companies from across the county have made the shortlist across 12 categories for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2018.

Val Russell, Chamber CEO said: “The first of the two stage judging process has been completed and we are pleased to invite these shortlisted finalists to continue on their journey and make their pitch to our panel of industry judges.

“The variety of entrants this year just goes to prove there are many #AwesomeAyshire businesses out there. We look forward to celebrating with you all at our Gala Dinner on October 12.”

The Finalists in the 2018 awards are, as follows:

Developing Ayrshire’s Young Workforce Award sponsored by 1825 Financial Planning: Accountant In Bankruptcy, East Ayrshire Carers Centre, Glaxosmithkline, Morrison Construction.

Excellence in Customer Service Award sponsored by Seamill Hydro: Glasgow Prestwick Airport, LMA Architects, Shire Housing Association, Slater Menswear.

Growth Business of the Year Award sponsored by GSK: Ampcontrol UK, Blue Rock Insurance Brokers, Green Home Systems, RAD Group Ayrshire.

Food & Drink Award sponsored by East Ayrshire Council: Bhaile Craft Bakery, Home Cook School, The Coo Shed, Weston Tavern & Restaurant.

Start-up Business of the Year Award sponsored by Business Gateway Ayrshire: Bhaile Craft Bakery, Elvinside Florist, Empower Studios, Pillow Property Partners.

Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by Woodward: Catriona Cook - Ayrshire College; Chloe Lennon- East Ayrshire Council; Ryan Kelly - James Frew Ltd; Cameron Black- Spirit AeroSystems.

Family Business Award sponsored by North Ayrshire Council: Enlighten Training, Hydroklear Services, Wilsons Auctions.

Business in the Community Award sponsored by Westfield Health: Ayrshire Independent Living Network, Little Acorns Early Years, McTaggart Group, The QTS Group.

Tourism Award - sponsored by West FM: Culzean Castle and Country Park, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, The Tartan Camper Company, VisitArran.

Ayrshire’s Best Business (0-10 employees) sponsored by West Coast Accelerator: Alan White Design, Blue Rock Insurance Brokers, Corrine Smith / JOY by Corrine Smith, Quantum Solutions. 

Ayrshire’s Best Business (11-50 employees) sponsored by South Ayrshire Council: 7Saints Bar & Burger Kitchen, East Ayrshire Carers Centre, Peacock Salt, Worksmart Contracts.

Ayrshire’s Best Business (51 employees or more) sponsored by Ministry of Defence: Ampcontrol UK, Buzzworks Holdings, Ready4Retirement.

There is still time to nominate for Ayrshire’s Favourite Business. Email awards@entourageuk.com (use the words Ayrshire’s Favourite Business in heading) before noon on Monday, September 3 with the name of the business and 100 words explaining why you like it so much. Include your own name, address and daytime telephone number.