The third South Wales Argus Business Awards – recognised as the biggest and brightest event of its kind in the local calendar - have been rearranged to now take place in November 2021.

The decision was taken because of the on-going pandemic and lockdown situations we have found ourselves in over the last few months.

Although the presentation of accolades to the winners of the categories will be held virtually – none of the glitz and glamour will be lost nor will the acclaim of being a sponsor or winner.

Winners of an 20/21 South Wales Argus Business Award will follow in the distinguished footsteps of the likes of Professor Simon Gibson, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 awards, and those of ground-breaking Chepstow-based Creo Medical Group plc, which was named Business of the Year in 2019.

A number of sponsors are back on board with us again this year and there are opportunities for other businesses to raise their profile by becoming sponsors of these popular awards.

South Wales Argus managing director Hussain Bayoomi, said: “The South Wales Argus Business Awards are always unique and special but this year we’re offering a chance to be part of a business awards like no other.

“Our awards offer sponsors and businesses an fantastic opportunity to gain massive exposure for themselves on a huge stage. Business leaders and their employees in the region will be able to join us for our on-demand awards broadcast in November 2021 to celebrate the amazing achievements of businesses both large and small from across our area.

“For 2020/21 the physical awards show is being transformed to an on-demand streaming broadcast. The broadcast of the awards evening will held permanently on our website and YouTube.”

The virtual event will be hosted by celebrities, who will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the award winners who will hear and see their names announced by professional icons from across the business, sporting and entertainment sector.

Mr Bayoomi said: “Sponsors, also fully immersed in the awards, will through their invaluable support see their profile elevated highlighting their support for the local community. These awards will increase and maintain awareness of your business through the South Wales Argus online platforms, they will inform and introduce potential new customers and equally importantly they will complement your existing advertising and communications strategy.

“There will be three shortlisted finalist announced per category with a single overall winner, chosen by our highly experienced judges. Winners will be presented with their awards by one of our handpicked celebrities.

“Winners will receive a bespoke memento of their success – a coveted South Wales Argus front page heralding their success along with a video clip of their category to use on their own social media.

“A high-quality virtual awards show will honour those leading lights within the business sector. Individuals and teams will feature in our one-off on-demand broadcast which will be permanently hosted on the South Wales Argus website.

“We’ve recruited nationally recognised celebrities, recognised movers and shakers renowned in their fields to work with us to create life-long memories for all those short listed across the categories.

“The South Wales Argus Business Awards 2020/21 are set to be the biggest and best yet.

“So get on board and be prepared to be immersed in an awards experience like no other-it’ll be simply the best and we want you, sponsors and nominees to be with us every step of the way on this pioneering journey to uncover innovation and excellence in business.”

Among sponsors already onboard for 2021 are Kymin, Icon Creative Design, Newport Now Business Improvement District, Friars Walk, Cintec International, Azzets, and the Kingsway Centre.