Famous explorer presents export, innovation awards

Four manufacturing and services-related businesses have been recognised for their commitment to export and innovation at the inaugural HSBC-Vodafone Export and Innovation Awards.

They were presented with their awards by Sir Ranulph Fiennes OBE, one of the world’s greatest living explorers.

HSBC Bank Malta’s head of commercial banking, Richard Cottell, described the quality of applications as extraordinarily high. The 12 finalists were testament to the entrepreneurial flair and innovation that was a defining characteristic of the Maltese business community, he said.

The awards are designed to ensure that SMEs with an annual turnover of less than €10 million can compete on a level playing field with larger companies, as each entrant is assessed on its own merits.

Medserv plc won the Most Improved Corporate Exporter award while Carlo Gavazzi Ltd was named Most Innovative Corporate Enterprise. The Most Improved SME Exporter award went to ISTC Ltd and ICP Ltd was awarded Most Innovative SME Business.

Winners will now gain automatic entry to the 2011 European Business Awards, which is also supported by HSBC. Cash prizes provided by HSBC will be donated to charities of the winners’ choice.

The gala presentation ceremony took place at the Hilton last Friday. Sir Ranulph was the first man to visit both the North and South Poles and holds several endurance records.