The London Business Awards will celebrate the achievements of London’s business community.

The capital is a massive wealth creator for both the national and global economies. The awards are designed to recognise the individuals who epitomise London’s unrivalled reputation across the business world.

They will also reflect the vibrant diversity of London’s economy – from sole traders to multinationals, manufacturers to retailers.

The awards attract widespread attention with both ITV London and the Evening Standard as media partners and provides entrants the opportunity to raise their profile to help secure new business , attract the best new personnel and respect from existing customers, suppliers and staff.

A distinguished judging panel headed by Sir Gulam Noon MBE, an ex-president of the London Chamber, and comprising key figures from commerce and industry will shortlist individuals or companies which have secured spectacular success in their respective fields at a time of general economic downturn.

The judges invite nominations for the following categories:

• Entrepreneur of the Year
• Business Innovation
• Small Firm of the Year
• Commitment to the Community
• Manufacturer of the Year
• Exporter of the Year
• Business Turnaround of the Year
• Young Business Person of the Year
• Business Person of the Year

Any business based in London can enter the London Business Awards, irrespective of size or sector. Entries cost nothing. The closing date for entries is 30 September 2004.

For more details on the awards and to download an entry form, go to www.londonbusinessawards.co.uk.

London First is urging the capital’s firms to rehearse emergency drills, in light of growing fears of a fresh terrorist attack in the US.

Rachel Goodison, programme director of Policing at London First, argued that London was well-placed to fend off terrorists, but should still take precautions.

“Unlike the US, London has lived with the threat of terrorist attacks for the past 30 years. London already has systems in place to ensure that the capital is as safe as possible at this time,” she said.

“If there is a specific threat this will be communicated. In the meantime London businesses, whatever their size, must ensure that they are as prepared as possible to cope with an emergency.

“London First is working with government and the police to encourage businesses to put contingency plans in place so that they are as resilient as possible and are aware of all eventualities.”

The news comes as the government steps up its campaign to make people aware of the threat posed by terrorists.

A booklet, ’Preparing for Emergencies’, is now available offering advice and checklists to help your business be a prepared as possible for an emergency.

More information and advice for businesses on preparing for an emergency situation can be found at www.londonprepared.gov.uk/business/index.htm.

Preparing for Emergencies.pdf (pdf, 1309K)

Businesses fall foul of maternity nitty-gritty

information supplied by businesslink4london.