WITH the 2018 Maranoa Business Awards fast approaching, now is the time to nominate your business and be recognised for its achievements.

This year, there are three industry categories for the business award sect ion - tourism and hospitality, retail and wholesale distribution and trades, professions and services.

Businesses are automatically entered into the industry categories after being nominated for either small, medium or large business of the year.

Last year's top retailer was the Mitchell Bakery, owned by Kyle and Fiona Mansfield placing first among a tough contingent of local businesses.

Speaking to The Western Star, Mr Mansfield said after winning last year's awards the Mitchell Bakery had experienced an increase in customer visitation.

"Winning in 2017 was a little unexpected,” he said.

"It probably promoted our business and made the front of the shop a little busier.

"Bringing home trophies like the local business awards really helps with word of mouth spreading through the grapevine.

"It has just been nice having that little bit of extra recognition for the work we do here.

"Any business would definitely benefit from entering this year's awards.”

Businesses which enter the awards will gain a wealth of benefits, including free promotion during the awards campaign, the opportunity to look at their achievements and celebrate them by being recognised and to receive feedback from the judges.

Entrants will also have an opportunity to further grow and develop their businesses by bouncing their ideas off the judges who can provide professional advice.

By nominating your business, you will be supporting the local business community while contributing to the Awards campaign.

Nominating is easy.

Go to www.commerce- roma.com.au/business- awards and provide some details and a brief on your business.

Help is available if any businesses need assistance.

Nominations close August 31.