Birmingham based Management and Construction Consultancy, Gleeds, has been announced as a finalist in the 3i Private Business of the Year category of the National Business Awards, in partnership with Orange. 

Now in their tenth year, the National Business Awards embody the core principles of business excellence, innovation and ethics with over 150 of Britain's most successful businesses announced as finalists for 2011. Martin Stiven, Vice President of Business at Orange, part of Everything Everywhere said, "Reaching the finals of the National Business Awards is no mean feat and I am delighted that the calibre of entrants keeps on improving. Many congratulations to them all and best of luck with the next stage of the competition". 

Commenting on how Gleeds made it through to the shortlist, Alex Evans, Editorial Director and Co-chair of Judges on behalf of the National Business Awards shortlist panel said, "Gleeds consistently demonstrate a professionalism, personality and high rate of repeat business which has earned them their place as a finalist. The firm has continued to adapt and diversify in a tough market - growing its energy and nuclear business - and has driven innovation through new partnerships". 

Lindsay McCombe, Director of Gleeds Birmingham added, "The economic climate continues to present unprecedented challenges and so we are very proud to have maintained such high levels of quality and performance. We are delighted that this has been recognised through our inclusion on the shortlist where we join some of Britain's most innovative and successful Private businesses." 

Finalists will present to an expert judging panel in September and October and winners will be honoured at the National Business Awards gala dinner, organised by UBM plc, at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London on Tuesday 8th November, where George Osborne, the Chancellor of the Exchequer will deliver this year's welcome address.