Who will be the best licensee in the Country?

20-Jan-2006

 

Six finalists have proved themselves to be among the finest licensees in the nation after securing themselves a place in the final of the prestigious BII Licensee of the Year Award 2006. This is no mean feat after the flood of nominations when the competition opened in October. Since then they have proved sound business acumen, industry knowledge, professionalism and enterprising skills which have been tested in the opening two rounds. But  who will make it past the final hurdle?

The award, sponsored by Matthew Clark is run by the BII, the professional body for the licensed retail sector. The competition is in its 13th year and is regarded as the industry’s most prestigious competition.

For the finalists  there is a challenging day of interviewing  ahead, facing three different judging panels. This appears a gruelling task but as one of the leaders of the judging process, John Vereker, a companion member of the BII, explained, “the day is very challenging but it is actually very friendly and great fun for all finalists, who really enjoy the event and meeting each other.”

On the day the Judges however will not just be looking for business professionalism but also a winning personality which can stand out as an example to all in the industry.  Mr .Vereker added, “the winner will be an ambassador for the BII and for our industry. They must be able to represent all professional licensees when discussing a range of issues. Considering the current climate in the licensed trade with its fresh challenges such as the smoking issue and the new licensing reform, an ambassador for the industry seems more relevant and necessary than ever.”

After the interviewing phase, all six finalists will attend the Publican Awards ceremony held 21 March 2006 at the Grosvenor House, when the ultimate winner will be announced in front of industry peers and high profile guests. Along with the prestigious title of Licensee of the Year 2006, they will stand to collect a trophy, a testament to their ability as a licensee and also a cheque for £1000.

So with the finishing line in sight, which finalist will clear the last fence?

Full list of finalists:

Mrs Elizabeth Sweeney MBII & Mrs Anne Sweeney GBII, Harvies Bar, 86, Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3NU

Mr Adam Giles MBII, The Plough Inn, Cleobury Road, Far Forest, Nr Bewdley, Kidderminster DY14 9TE

Mr Richard Macey FBII & Mrs Jacqueline Macey MBII, The Fountain Inn, Adams Hill, Clent, Nr Stourbridge, Worcestershire, DY9 9PU

Ms Sonia Harris, The Anglers, 3 Broom Road, Teddington, Surrey TW11 9NR

Mr Andrew Cannon FBII, Victoria Inn, Fore Street, Salcombe, TQ8 8BU

Mr Richard Bell FBII & Mrs Denise Bell  FBII, The Silent Woman, Coldharbour, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 7PA




Email natasha@bii.org
Contact Natasha Rydlewski, Communications Officer 01276 417805