A BISHOPS Castle firm has been shortlisted in the Global Business of the Year category in the 2023 Shropshire Chamber Business Awards. 

Jesmonite is a manufacturer that produces two-part kits, a liquid and a power, that when combined can create an array of colours, textures and finishes. 

The materials can be used for a wide variety of decorative purposes to create anything from jewellery to coasters to table tops.

Jesmonite is known as the Chameleon material because it can replicate a diverse range of textures and fine details.

The company will now attend a glittering Oscars-style event in front of hundreds of guests at Telford’s International Centre on Friday, June 23. Jay Blades, host of BBC television programme, The Repair Shop, is the guest speaker.

Writing on its Facebook page, Jesmonite said: "We're over the moon to announce we're a finalist in the Global Business category at this year's Shropshire Chamber Business Awards!

"Jesmonite has seen astronomical international growth over recent years and it's great to have our success recognised. We'll find out whether we're winners of the category on June 23rd - wish us luck!" 

Ruth Ross, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber, said: “The awards night is always a fantastic occasion, celebrating the extraordinary adaptability, innovation and success of our business community.

“Once again, we have been amazed and delighted by the volume and quality of entries, including very strong interest in our new categories. Shortlisting each of them down to a final four was a really tough task for our independent judging panel.”

Teams of judges will be visiting each of the finalists at their premises during May to make their final decision.

The competition was open to all businesses with an operational base in the county of Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin – whether or not they are a Chamber member.

It includes the return of long-running categories including Company of the Year, Best New Business, and Best Small Business.

There are also new-look categories this year for Global Business recognising international trade, Commitment To People, and a return of the Business In The Community award.

“The Shropshire Chamber Business Awards are firmly established among the largest events of their kind in the country, with a history stretching back more than 20 years,” said added Ms Ross.

“We know that Shropshire businesses are going to be facing significant challenges over the coming year, so it’s more important than ever to celebrate and recognise the success stories of our incredible collection of 2023 finalists.”