THIS year, it is even more important that businesses shout out about their achievements.

With the global recession still biting, companies need to get out there to show they are still fighting and open for business.

That is why this year’s Bolton and Bury Business Awards are the place to be seen.

The awards are now in their fourth successful year and have steadily grown since they were introduced in 2006.

As well as giving the shortlisted businesses some public exposure, there is the chance to pick up a prestigious trophy for the winners.

The awards, organised by The Bolton News and the Bury Times, with Business Bolton again as the main sponsors, have attracted high-calibre entrants from all spheres of business.

And once again we are encouraging the young entrepreneurs of the future in the Schools Enterprise category.

The sponsors had a tough time choosing the winners and all 30 shortlisted businesses feature in this supplement.

The winners will be announced at the awards dinner at the De Vere Whites Hotel on Thursday, June 25, which last year was attended by almost 600 guests.

Everyone is looking forward to the event which will be hosted for the second year running by BBC North West Tonight’s Gordon Burns. Our master of ceremonies will also again by Norman Prince.

But who will win? Which business will take the coveted Business of the Year Award and which business will prove they are the best at customer excellence?

The countdown to the awards is on but before the trophies are handed out, find out what makes our finalists stand out from the rest.