The event, held at the London Hilton in Park Lane, has grown considerably over the last year and it was clear from the calibre of the entries that those involved all demonstrate excellence, best practice and contribute to continuously improving industry standards.

The winners are all included in the Book of the Night within this month's Printing World magazine but some entries are worthy of a special mention.

Pensord and Oxuniprint were two company names often announced during the ceremony and both left with two awards.

The former came away with a well-deserved award for Improved Financial Performance and Company of the Year (with more than 100 employees) and, as chief executive Tony Jones operates the company on the basis of an extended partnership, it was fitting to see many of those involved in the company's success were there to celebrate their success.

People Management was one of Oxuniprint wins, along with its operations manager Ian Wilton picking up Oxuniprint's second award for Personal Improvement. This is a company recognised as so good with its staff it has a waiting list of over 30 potential staff keen to join.

Newcomers to the Excellence Awards this year, InterFlex Scotland came through to win the Lean Manufacturing with its sound and well-structured submission that showed a genuine commitment to an 'inclusive' approach to Lean.

Any worries Lord Gavron had about being forgotten by the print industry were laid to rest last night with his receiving the Excellence Awards 08 Lifetime Achievement award.

He said he was delighted to receive it and spoke of his pride in the industry; one that he has been involved in since he founded the St Ives Group in 1964. Lord Gavron continues to be involved in print through his publishing endeavours including the Folio Society and The Carcanet Press.

And for those interested in taking part next year, here are some suggestions to help you preparing the entries.

The judges do notice the amount of work that goes into putting an entry together – and while the judges are very careful to read through the complete entries, those first impressions are important for an initial favourable impression.

A summary of an entry helps the important points stand out as will visual aids. So with that said, the best of luck for next year… Why not start planning your entry this month?