Ener-g wins grand prix Salford business award

SUSTAINABLE energy company Ener-g last night won the grand prix award at the second annual Salford Business Awards.

The privately-owned Salford-based energy technology business, run by Derek Duffill, employs 650 staff, with 400 of those at three sites in Salford.

Ener-g says it has doubled its turnover during the past two years to around £70m and in the next financial year expects to further increase turnover by more than 30%, while creating more local jobs.

Close to 100 organisations entered this year’s awards, which were held at The Lowry Arts Centre. More than 200 guests heard Andy Bond, chief executive of ASDA and former graduate of the University of Salford, speak of the success of Salford businesses, despite the economic climate.

Jon Monk, development manager of the Chapel Street Business Group, which organised the awards with the University of Salford and Salford City Council, said: “Our winners reflect the diverse nature of businesses in Salford and include family businesses like Kids Kapers, community organisations such as Salford City Radio and multi-national organisations who are leaders in their sector; we look forward to supporting them all throughout the next twelve months.”

Councillor John Merry, leader of Salford City Council added: “Businesses up and down the country are facing new challenges during the recession and we’re taking action as a city to support local companies through this difficult time. The Salford Business Awards are a way of giving something back to local companies to commend them on their successes and to show that we value their continued work, particularly as things haven’t been easy during the current climate.”

The award winners were:

Business of the Year Award: ENER-G

Innovation Award: 2ergo

Technology Award: ENER-G

Excellence Award: Lowry Hotel

Green Award: Kingsland Wines & Spirits

Community Award: Salford City Radio

Entrepreneur Award: Cetus Solutions

International Trade Award: I&G Cohen