Logistics firm in bid to defend title

Logistics firm Spicer International was announced as small business of the year at the 2013 ceremony at Worthing Pavilion in October.

Launched in 2009 by hands-on director Stuart Spicer, its customer service-focussed approach, charitable fundraising and strong business performance convinced judges it was the best in its class.

Mr Spicer said he hoped to enter again this year and retain the title for another year.

He said: “Being shortlisted, there was a hope that we could be successful but we were pleasantly surprised to win, especially given the high calibre of businesses we were up against.

“It was a great accolade and something we were happy to tell our customers about during the course of the year.”

He added: “The hardest bit will be defending that title and something we would be delighted to do. We are very proud of our award.”

The firm, based in Northbrook Business Park, in Worthing, exports and distributes goods nationally and internationally.

With a small team, its customer service was also subject to an awards nomination.

While it missed out on an award, it remains at the heart of its ethics.

A testimonial from business partner E.Co Ltd, which formed part of its nomination last year, stated: “Spicer is always professional, courteous and nothing is too much trouble, and in addition they have saved us money with their suggestions.

“I can thoroughly recommend their services.”

Since last year, Spicer has continued to trade strongly, with a Ukrainian contract one of many highlights.

Mr Spicer said: “It has just been a constant volume of business.

“In previous years, there have been peaks and troughs and this year, we have had no troughs and that has been the difference.

“We picked up a Ukrainian contract and a sustainable energy deal, which kept us very busy. Maybe that was down to the award, our hard work, or a bit of both.”

Nominations have opened across 15 categories, from green business to business personality, with prizes to be presented at Worthing Pavilion on November 14.

For more details, visit www.jpsouthevents.co.uk/events/event/adur-worthing-business-awards

Entries received by August 11 will be entered into a prize draw to win an iPad.

To sponsor a category, email [email protected]