The awards, sponsored by specialist bank Investec, are looking for successful food and drink producers and retailers, large or small.
The competition is free to enter and the prize is £5,000. The closing date for entries is: Friday September 12. Winners will be announced on Tuesday November 6.
The awards are partnered by Business is Great/The Great Britain Campaign, which was set up to showcase the best of what Britain has to offer.
The judging panel comprises: Luke Johnson (Pizza Express, Patisserie Valerie, Feng Sushi, Strada, Giraffe, Gail’s Artisan Bakery); Lord Karan Bilimoria of Cobra Beer; Julian Metcalfe, Pret a Manger and Itsu; Lady Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organics and Lord Noon of Noon Foods.
Investec’s James Stirling said: “Investec is delighted to be sponsoring the Food & Drink Entrepreneur of the Year awards. Britain continues to foster world-beating innovation in this industry, with some of the most exciting new brands in recent years originating from these shores. The food and drink sector has always been a key focus of activity for Investec, and one in which we have gained a deep institutional expertise, having worked with so many successful entrepreneurs in this space over the years.”
The awards’ media partner is Waitrose Weekend and the celebratory toast on the evening will come from English wine producer, Chapel Down.
