The innovative software system has been demonstrated to allow freight forwarders the ability to handle up to 50 per cent more business with no increase in labour, and a cut from two hours to 30 minutes for some typical shipping-based functions. The software accomplishes this by linking all elements of the supply chain together, thus maximising efficiency throughout the entire process.

It was felt that these positive early results merited a £45,000 grant, which was awarded to spark more extensive development of the Exportease system.

The awards were open to small, medium and large companies who ‘have the dedication for hard work and commitment which makes their companies a success’.

This was the fifth successful year of the Colchester District Business Awards, the aim being to recognise business excellence in the district and to raise the profile of the local economy. Newsquest Essex has been organising business awards across the county for the past eight years.