Entries have begun pouring in from resellers, distributors and other tech providers around the UK for the 2012 Channel Awards. Is your company in it to win it yet? Fleur Doidge reports
The deadline to enter the 2012 CRN Channel Awards will be earlier this year, according to organisers. The last entries will be accepted online this year no later than 20 July at 5pm.
That is about two weeks earlier than in previous years. “So if you have something to shout about - as many of you do - don’t hesitate. Complete your entry if not today, then soon, before the twin barrels of summer business and holidays are upon us,” says Sara Yirrell, editor of CRN.
The categories to choose from this year will be the same as last year. These awards are the top channel awards in the UK for all classes and variations of IT business partnership. Every year sees efforts renewed to ensure the ultimate in objectivity and therefore the results that are most truly representative of success in the channel.
After entries close on 20 July, the panel of handpicked industry judges deliberates over each entry, looking at every one in fine detail before a final shortlist of potential award winners is announced on 28 August. This year the judges will have two weeks’ more time than previously to deliberate, so a good tip is to take great care to ensure your entry really does show your company in the best light.
“As we have seen in the past, with our strict judging criteria, those who make the effort get the rewards - the judges’ hands are tied if a very worthy company enters but does not completely fulfil the demands of the entry process,” says Yirrell.
The big night
The ceremony will take place at Battersea Park events arena - now known as Battersea Evolution - on Thursday 15 November, kicking off with a glitzy champagne reception, followed by a delicious dinner as always, with plenty of beverages, and rounding off with drinks and dancing at Battersea before the famous after-party in central London.
The identity of the evening’s compere will remain secret until very nearly the event itself, but CRN’s Yirrell will give an introductory speech and work the room beforehand, alongside the rest of the team. The Channel Awards remain an unparalleled networking event for resellers, distributors, vendors and other technology providers - not least because the evening is always a great deal of fun.
“I always look forward to meeting new contacts and readers as well as renewing the relationship with all our old friends from the industry at the Channel Awards,” says Yirrell. “And don’t forget, there is always the opportunity to donate further to charities in need of support as well.”
• All entries must be made online at http://events.channelweb.co.uk/awards/static/enter-now
