Application forms for the scheme, which covers 11 categories including marketing, e-business, safety and training, are available from the federation's website.

BPIF director of corporate affairs Cicely Brown said the federation had chosen a line from US poet Wendell Berry "It is not from ourselves that we learn to be better" as the motto for this year's awards.

"Ultimately, all awards are about sharing and disseminating best practice," Brown explained.

"We believe that the reward gained from winning on the night provides greater recognition for the company among all its stakeholders, which include suppliers and employees as well as customers."

PrintWeek is an official supporter of the event, which will take place at the London Marriott hotel on Grosvenor Square on 13 September.

Around 400 guests are expected to attend.

A full list of award categories is available online at www.britishprint.com.

For more information, e-mail  bpifawards2004@hsa events.co.uk.

Story by Lauretta Roberts