More than 650 people will be descending on Telford International Centre on June 19 for the largest event on the Shropshire business calendar.

A total of 14 trophies are on offer at the 26th annual Shropshire Chamber Business Awards, including the showpiece Company of the Year title.

The build-up officially began when the Chamber held a ‘Meet The Finalists’ event at the Park House Hotel in Shifnal, bringing together shortlisted companies, judges, sponsors and the Chamber team.

Battling for the Company of the Year award are former champion Pave Aways from Knockin, Telford-based duo Aviramp and Kraft Heinz, Riverside Cabins of Shrewsbury, Fowler & Gilbert from Market Drayton, Bridgnorth Aluminium, and Shropshire Festivals.

Exotic Zoo of Telford is up for three awards, while Jesmonite of Bishop’s Castle, The Hundred House at Norton, R1 Construction from Shrewsbury, Lingen Davies Cancer Support, Pave Aways, Shropshire Festivals, Aviramp, and CEL of Telford have each been shortlisted in two categories.

A record number of entries were received this year. Finalists come from all corners of the county, including Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Ludlow, Whitchurch, Bridgnorth, Market Drayton, Bishop’s Castle, Shawbury, Newport, Buildwas, Broseley, Rodington, Cosford, and more.

Teams of independent judges toured the county last month to meet all of the finalists, before choosing their winners. The Chamber played no part in the shortlisting or judging.

Ruth Ross, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber, said: “We have once again been amazed and delighted by the volume and quality of entries. It’s really refreshing to see so many first-time entrants and finalists this year.

“They represent the very best of the Shropshire business community - organisations that are innovating, investing in their people and driving growth across.

“This year’s finalists set a powerful example of what can be achieved, and we are delighted to recognise their contribution to the prosperity of our county.”