Torbay’s leading conference and leisure venue, the Riviera International Centre has been officially recognised as one of the most ‘forward thinking and ambitious companies’ in the south west.

For the Centre has been officially accepted for Beacon Company status which is an award given to those companies who demonstrate outstanding achievement across a range of criteria.

Beacon South West – which is promoted by the South West Regional Development Agency - brings together ambitious companies to promote success and spearhead the growth of the region. It also encourages other businesses to turn to Beacon members for leadership and examples of significant business performance.

The agency also works closely with Business Link Devon and Cornwall who have played a key role in developing and piloting the project. The South West RDA is investing £800k in the project over two years.

The Riviera International Centre at Torquay is the latest company to win the prestigious accolade and it’s a feather in the cap for managing director Barry Cole and his team.

The Centre attracts huge support from local companies for conferences, exhibitions and meetings, complimented by a strong leisure interest that includes the excellent Lifestyle Health and Fitness Suite and more recently the stylish Bay Brasserie. The Centre also attracts numerous conferences from all over the country, including the major Rotarians and N.U.T. (National Union of Teachers) and other association conferences.

Barry explained: “We are delighted with our selection as a Beacon Company which shows that we have been outstanding in a significant number of areas, including, productivity, good business practice and the execution of a clear business strategy.”

Sue Baker, head of Beacon South West said: “These awards represent a huge achievement for validated companies. They are a physical representation of excellent business performance and I congratulate the Riviera International Centre on its selection.”

Beacon South West provides a focus for promoting and sharing practical tips, techniques and strategies for success. Participating companies are given the opportunity to forge new strategic alliances, to network with other established and emerging organisations and to share and learn tried and tested aspects for business growth.