Judging for the 2022 routeone Awards commenced in early July as the coach and bus industry’s premier recognition scheme got into full swing to make a successful comeback after three years away.
To be presented at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Wednesday 2 November, the 2022 routeone Awards see two new categories debut. Entries to both Above and Beyond, and Outstanding Customer Experience, have been strong, with a particular focus in the former on work done by individuals and teams to benefit their wider industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The seven judges have particularly commended numerous entries to Above and Beyond as demonstrating superb commitment to securing a prosperous future for the sector, along with those that recognise selfless acts that extend as far as saving another person’s life.
Meanwhile, competition in other categories – relating to both people and businesses – is keen, while early deliberation for the winner of the Special Award, which recognises an individual’s longstanding overall contribution to the industry, has begun. Several names are already in the frame for that most prestigious of accolades.
Judges are now finalising their shortlists of entries that will proceed to the second round of deliberation. For people categories, that will involve interview in front of selected panel members – all of whom are experts in their field – to allow final decisions to be made.
The completed shortlist for all categories except the Special Award will be published in August. Interviews will shortly be called for Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 September. Feedback from the entry round has been considered, and interviewees will be given the choice of attending either in person in Birmingham, or via a digital platform.
Presentation evening ticket sales have opened already. The event sits alongside trade show Euro Bus Expo, which will be held at the NEC Birmingham on 1-3 November.
