"We have been overwhelmed by the number of nominations that have flooded in this year by post and online," he said.

Mr Loe, who founded the awards more than 35 years ago, said nominations for the 2020 Awards had closed and counting was already underway.

"It's a mammoth task to sort through the huge number of nominations we have received this year," he said.

"While I never fail to be amazed by the huge level of support that the Southern Highlands community shows for its local businesses, this year has been outstanding".

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"We are now in the process of compiling thousands of nominations to determine this year's finalists".

"Once the most popular businesses in each category have been determined, the Awards team will notify the finalists."

The next step in the awards process will be judging.

Judging criteria include: range of products, value for money, business and staff appearance, service quality and customer relations.

Finalists can also submit information about aspects of their business that an anonymous judge may not see, such as customer testimonials and references.

Mr Loe said the awards program and the benefits it brought to local businesses was only possible because of the generosity of its sponsors.

"We are proud that this year's Major sponsors: NOVA Employment and Flower Flower and Support sponsors: Wingecarribee Shire Council and White Key Marketing, have thrown their support behind the local business community".

"Without them, the Southern Highlands Local Business Awards would not be possible."

The achievements of all finalists will be celebrated at a gala awards dinner and presentation evening to be held on Monday, November 23 at Mittagong RSL Club.

For more information about the Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au

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