Essex Boatyards was awarded the prestigious accolade of joint ‘2008 Young Business Person of the Year’ at yesterday’s Boating Business Exhibition (BBEx) in Bournemouth, Dorset. The award, which recognises business people who have made the biggest impact in their company, was presented to Nick, James, Guy and David Barke of Essex Boatyards highlighting the company’s commitment to providing the highest standards of customer service, quality and professionalism since 1999.

Winning the award is a testament to the family-owned company’s hard work and superb provision of service and facilities; securing the reputation of the UK’s number one boat sales centre, and a firm favourite with loyal customers throughout the country.

“A lot of commitment and hard work has gone in to achieving the high standards of service that we are proud to offer,” comments Nick Barke, Joint Managing Director of Essex Boatyards. “We are extremely pleased to have won this award and to be recognised in the industry for our dedication to developing our business, and ensuring our customers benefit from the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency in all aspects of boating. We continue to invest in the latest handling and site equipment, which has included a 30t and 70t hoist.”

Essex Boatyards has transformed from humble beginnings at a small Essex boatyard selling 14ft speedboats to a huge operation based at 2 marina sites turning over £35m per annum and delivering 600 boats per year from 17ft to 80ft. Over the past few years, some of the world’s leading manufacturers; such as Fairline, Arvor and Glastron have chosen Essex Boatyards as an authorised dealer demonstrating confidence in the experienced company.

The Young Business Person of the Year award recognises business people who have made the biggest impact in their company in terms of developing the company with new business, ideas or services, innovative products, or those who have simply made a difference to a business with their personality.

Feb 2008