Chief executive, NWES,
and chairman of the Future50 judges
Welcome to the third year of recognising local businesses that lead the way in their chosen field. In a much publicised period of economic instability, the last three years have provided difficult trading conditions for small and large organisations with some familiar household names being left in the wake of a seemingly never ending tidal wave of gloom. Against this backdrop, in the previous two campaigns as well as this current class, we have unearthed some outstanding success stories, individuals with entrepreneurial flair mixed with sound business practice.
Where some companies have shown apprehension and have chosen to consolidate or even retreat and apply caution to their activities, these Future50 companies have, with deliberate strategic intent, steadily sought out opportunities, maintained forward momentum and strived to grow and diversify amid a flat economy.
The fact that I have had the privilege to be chairman of the judging panel and therefore the opportunity to be acquainted with some remarkable companies, and be witness to ongoing success in our region does, unashamedly, fill me with pride.
The judging process this year has not been 'arduous' other than to choose the class of 2011 with so many applicants. Picking 50 to highlight, when all the applicants have excellent merits and a business to showcase, has been thought provoking to say the least.
We have been excited to see very real growth amongst Future50's energy firms - a sector declared by Environment Secretary Chris Huhne as leading the 'third industrial revolution' - and one in which NWES is particularly involved. Energy stars include Oilennium with its development of a wind turbine simulator, CLS offshore continuing their growth with new headquarters and new jobs, and 3Sun and Seajacks who have graduated from the list this year but continue as examples of Norfolk flagship success stories.
This year the country has seen a transformation in business support, with the abolition of Regional Development Agencies and the birth of Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP), to the switching of Business Link from a personalised to virtual service. Our own LEP, New Anglia, has had a solid start with the acceptance of an Enterprise Zone in Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft as well as being granted pathfinder status for the green economy.
Despite the changes in public funded business support, NWES - in its 30th year - remains as the prime source of local advice and help covering the range from pre start to high growth companies. This year with our fellow sponsors we are pleased to be expanding the support available to the Future50 with a range of targeted and bespoke networking events designed to accelerate growth.
What of the year ahead? Whilst 2012 may not present a direct path to recovery, the ongoing threat of recession nevertheless does not wipe out opportunity. The Future50 stars of 2011 are testament to this and the bold individuals at the helm of these businesses are representative of the enterprise and innovation upon which the economic success of our region will depend.
