Thanks to generous sponsors, nominations, judges, the VP, attendees
I sometimes think that running the Chamber is a task not unlike painting the Forth Bridge — just when you think you’ve accom-plished what you’ve set out to do, you realise that it’s time to start all over again.
It seems hard to believe that the 3rd annual BCCJ British Business Awards is actually now upon us. All the same, it seems right and proper that I should take time out to thank everyone who has been involved. In particular, I would like to acknowledge our sponsors because without their generosity, frankly we would not be in a position to present the awards. I take heart from the fact that sponsors in previous years have spoken of the value they gained from their involvement and that some of this year’s sponsors are “repeaters”.
Thank you, also, to those who sent in nominations and to our panel of judges who faced the difficult challenge of sorting through them and deciding on the winners. The point to remember, though, is that everyone who was nominated is a winner anyway.
Discontent once again proved a quirky creative partner and Custom Media a solid PR supporter. Our Vice-President Paul Atkinson was the architect behind this year’s Awards, so thanks also go to him. And of course thank you to everyone who has booked places to attend. Finally, Forth Bridge in mind, it will soon be time to start planning the 4th BBA, so if you are looking for sponsorship opportunities in 2011, please bear us in mind.
BUSINESS OF BUSINESS
It was encouraging to hear Foreign Secretary William Hague in his address at the Ambassador’s residence stress the importance the UK government is placing on business. For all that the Japanese economy is struggling, we know there are still significant opportunities here for foreign entities that have the will and commitment to make it in this market place. For more than 60 years, the BCCJ has demonstrated that Britain means business in Japan and — while there’s no room for complacency — we have a great deal to be proud of. That’s why I would like to encourage you to share the stories of your business successes in the pages of this magazine. ACUMEN has a broad — and ever-growing — readership and I am delighted that so many people have said the publication appears to improve every issue. I commend the work of the writers, editors and publisher, and suggest that their efforts deserve all the support we members can give them.
