The finalists can now be revealed for the 2024 York Press BusinessiQ Awards, with judges reporting a record number of entries, with their quality also the highest ever.

This follows the judging of almost 200 entries, with the small business category the most hotly contested with 40 entries.

Now, organisers are preparing the finishing touches of the glittering black-tie ceremony , which takes place at the Knavesmire on Friday November 29, when the winners will be announced.

The headline sponsors for the event, now in its 34th year, are York St John University and the LNER train company.

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Businessman David Dickson has been judging the awards since the very start.

David said: “The entries to  York  Press  Business Awards are a barometer of the growing strength of York and surrounding area business Sector .

“This year not only were the number of entries at a record level , the quality was also the highest l can recall in all my years of judging .

“As we move into a system  where more decision making, through devolution into a Combined Authority of York and North Yorkshire ,will be made based on the needs of our local communities ,l see our outstanding developing business Community and in particular our young  innovative business’s continuing to thrive.”

The team at the GrandThe team at the Grand (Image: supplied)

Another long-serving judge is Anne Taylor, Marketing Manager of York-based One Stop Business Finance.

Anne said: “I’m continually amazed by the number of successful businesses we have in York. There have been some amazing entries and it’s clear that a lot of time and effort went into them, showcasing the pride these business owners have in what they’ve built,

“The standard this year has been exceptional across all categories, and it was a packed room to discuss the submissions in detail, with sponsors included too.”

Anne explained: “Each year we evaluate various criteria to assess success, how business have tackled challenges, and their potential for future growth. A huge congratulations to every business that took part, and an even bigger well done to the finalists! November’s ceremony is set to be a fantastic evening honouring businesses from across the region, we look forward to seeing you there.”

Anne added: “It's been an absolute pleasure to be a judge for the York Business Awards again this year. The quality and diversity of the submissions have been truly impressive, and it’s inspiring to see so many businesses making a positive impact on our city.”

The team at Yorkshire HeartThe team at Yorkshire Heart (Image: Supplied)

Enjoying her second year of judging was Rachel Bean of York BID.

Rachel said: “As a member of the Indie York Steering Committee, I was particularly excited by the number of nominations for small and independent businesses this year. York is the city of independents, and it’s brilliant to see the creativity and innovation coming from these businesses, even through challenging economic times.”

She added: “I can’t wait to celebrate with all the nominees at the Awards later this year."

Dr Rebecca Biggins, Associate Dean: HRM and Marketing, York Business School said: "It was truly inspiring being part of the judging panel this year and seeing the innovation, resilience, and leadership displayed by so many remarkable businesses.

“As headline sponsors, York St John University is proud to support and celebrate the fantastic achievements that are driving growth and shaping the future of business in York. It's a privilege to help shine a light on the outstanding contributions being made across the local business community."

The finalists are as follows:

Apprentice of the Year, which is sponsored by Merchant Adventurers Hall: Andrew Fleming, Callum Logan and Reuben Philpott.

Business Innovation, sponsored by Fera Science Ltd: Bright Spark Agency, Mindful Memorials and School Kitchen.

Business Personality, sponsored by York Racecourse: Alex McCallion, Elliot Rich and Rachel Roche.

Employer of the Year, sponsored by City Cruises: Fera Science Ltd, The Grand, and Spectrum First Ltd.

Family Business, sponsored by JW Myers Monumental Masons: Counter Interiors Ltd, Dennis Distribution and the Yorkshire Heart Vineyard.

Large Business, sponsored by YO1 Radio: City Cruises, Hunter Gee Holroyd and York Barbican.

Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by Parsons Accountants: DJ Assembly Ltd, Sheppee International Ltd and Yorvale.

New Business, sponsored by NFU Mutual: Back Pocket Office, Ergo Styling Tools UK, Iris Graphics Ltd.

Retail, Leisure and Hospitality, sponsored by York Data Services: HRH Group, School Kitchen and York Dungeon.

Small Business, sponsored by Hethertons Solicitors: Avorium, LEaF Translations, and TRTRehab.

Sustainability, sponsored by Portakabin: Coastliner, Iris Graphics Ltd and Wold Top Brewery.

An overall winner will also be selected during the awards night.