THE MANTRA THAT the customer is king has never been more apt than in an economy where companies are fighting for a slice of the market.

Now, it’s payback time – in a good way. Customers are being ask to nominate a company for the title of Ireland’s friendliest business. The Junior Chamber International (Ireland), a development organisation for young people, is running the competition. Louise Walsh, President of JCI Ireland said:

With the current pinch in the economy it is so important for businesses to be able to set themselves apart from their competitors. These businesses who go that little bit further will survive and thrive when the economy picks up.

The awards are intended to promote local industry and outstanding customer service. The criteria on which nominees will be judged include:

• Customer care/friendliness
• Eco-friendliness
• Shop layout and design
• Disability access.

To nominate a business, email fba@jci-ireland.org on or before 19 August with the details of the business and why you think they should win the Friendly Business for 2011 award.

JCI Ireland has a number of other interesting, pro-active projects on the go including the Outstanding Young Person award and Active Citizenship Week.