PUBLISHER
Never Too Early to Plan the BBA
With a full season or two before the sixth British Business Awards ( BBA ), it feels strange as we plan — the aircon running — the BCCJ ’ s flagship event , traditionally held closer to winter .
But why start so early ? I joined the recent inaugural meeting of this year ’ s BBA task force , led by BCCJ Vice-president Suzanne Price , and was gobsmacked by the sheer scale of the work , decisions and details facing the organisers , who are mostly volunteers .
Despite each previous BBA evening having been a huge success — last year ’ s drew a record number of nominations and a sell-out 180 guests — many fresh ideas were tabled to present an even better one in 2013 .
I learned that , while many elements of the 2013 BBA are not yet confirmed — some are revealed by BCCJ Executive Director Lori Henderson MBE ( page 11 ) and BCCJ President Alison Jambert ( page 15 )— one certainty is that guests will enjoy a very special black tie evening on 1 November at the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo .
Featured will be British-themed — and unique in Japan — ambience , as well as high-quality food , beverages and entertainment plus , naturally , the muchanticipated awards ceremony itself .
It may be a cliché to say that everyone ’ s a winner , but the fact is — even for those who do not win an award — just being nominated can be a priceless treat for accompanying clients , staff , vendors , investors , friends and even family members .
Less well known is that the nomination procedure is also a rare chance , indeed , to help firms identify their strengths , weaknesses and potential .
To actually be a winner at the BBA — which recognises excellence and promotes success , innovation , social contributions , ethical behaviour and environmental sustainability — is a prestigious endorsement of projects , initiatives and other achievements that can be used in future marketing material .
Often it is said that few people can put on a bash like the British , so expect your Japanese and other anglophile associates to be especially curious about — and keen to attend — the proceedings .
Needless to say , corporate tables — especially the “ best ones ” near the stage — are in demand from day one so , as they say , you are advised to book early ; BCCJ members will be informed when bookings and nominations can be accepted .
Having helped with a number of BBA nominations in the past , I am familiar with the emotions involved , and can assure you the BBA is a very special ceremony . The awards are keenly contested and eagerly accepted , and I look forward to seeing you on the night .
Simon Farrell Custom Media simon @ custom-media . com
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