THE finalists have been announced for the Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce Bee's Knees Business Awards 2018.

Thirty finalists were selected from a shortlist of entrants who made presentations to judging panels over the last few weeks.

Winners, including the recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement prize, will be announced at a gala dinner in the marquee at The Chartroom, Kip Marina, on Friday June 8, hosted by Karen Dunbar.

Judges say they faced a tough task to compile a list of finalists, showing the strength in depth of the local enterprise scene.

Linda Scott, president of Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce, said: "Our sponsor representatives and Inverclyde Chamber directors who made up the category judging panels found themselves challenged once again with an exceptional and diverse line-up of shortlisted candidates, each showcasing their achievements and ambitions to claim their place in the Bee’s Knees Business Awards finals.

“Our congratulations go to all finalists who are helping us demonstrate continued business growth here in Inverclyde.

"We have a great deal to be proud about and we thank our sponsors for joining with us to recognise the talent within our resilient local business community.

“We look forward to celebrating their impressive achievements at our awards dinner this June."

FINALISTS

Inverclyde Business of the year (sponsored by Riverside Inverclyde): Ferguson Marine, Specsavers and The Waterfront Cinema.

Inspiring sole trader (sponsored by the Waterfront Cinema): Clyde Activity Bikes, Leapmoor LLP and PJH Bookkeeping.

Proud to be Inverclyde (sponsored by West College Scotland): Compassionate Inverclyde, Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Inverclyde Tourist Group.

Outstanding Customer Service (sponsored by Holiday Inn Express Hotel): Specsavers, Te Chartroom and the Waterfront Cinema.

Inspiring Professional of the Year (sponsored by Inverclyde Council): McClure Solicitors, Specsavers and Welsh Walker.

Excellence in Skills and Learning (sponsored by Autotec Scotland): Ferguson Marine, Holiday Inn Express Hotel, Morton in the Community and Welsh Walker.

Best use of Innovation or Digital Technology (sponsored by River Clyde Homes): Balmore Group, RIG Arts and The Waterfront cinema

Best Brand Promotion or Campaign (sponsored by The Chartroom): Caledonian MacBrayne and Wet Wall Works.

Emerging Young Talent (sponsored by Texas Instruments): Michael Sinclair, project planner at Ferguson Marine, Emma Smith, business development executive at PG Paper Company and Stuart McKenzie, online sales and distribution manager for Wet Wall Works.

Most Promising New Business Award (sponsored by Peelports - Clydeport): PJH Bookkeeping, The Pirate and Bluebelle and Wet Wall Works.

Tickets are available now for the awards ceremony and gala dinner at www.inverclydechamber.co.uk