Brought the prize home in the European final

Bonum won yesterday evening at the European Business Awards, competing with national winners across industries from all over Europe

The final selection of the European Business Awards was conducted over two days in Warsaw, Poland. Over 450 business leaders from across Europe were present, and together with politicians, ambassadors and academics, gathered for the final days of what is considered Europe's largest and most prestigious business competition across industries.

Bonum was named the winner after the final round with the judges yesterday, in the category 'The Business of the Year Award with Turnover of €26-150m'. When the competition started last year, there were initially 112,000 companies from 34 countries that were evaluated. 2,898 of the companies were identified as 'Ones to Watch' in December, and after closer evaluation by independent judges, 289 companies were then named 'National Winners' and finalists for the final prize.

"This is an exceptionally great recognition for the company. It is a prize we receive with pride and humility on behalf of all employees who have contributed to getting Bonum up and running. We come from a challenger position in a relatively traditional industry, and we will do our part to continue contributing positively in the future with good property projects and innovative solutions both at project and company level," says Stefan Moltke-Hansen Yan, development director and partner at Bonum.

A stronger business community in Europe

The competition's primary purpose is to support the development of a stronger and more successful business community in Europe. Jean Stephens, CEO at RSM International, which is EBA's main sponsor, stated:

"At RSM, we believe it is important to support and champion business growth in Europe. The successful companies at this event are a showcase of extraordinary entrepreneurialism, innovation and leadership and are each playing a part in driving growth in their economies. All those involved are a credit to their country and we wish them every success for the future."

Focus on innovation and new thinking stands as an important criterion for the judges in the competition.

"We are in an era with large waves of innovation and new technology, which are coming at an ever faster pace. The property and construction industry is entirely dependent on being early out in order to keep efficiency and profitability up and deliver homes that have the qualities buyers really want and properties that are not outdated only a few years after construction," points out Yan, and concludes: "Our company is in rapid development. We have a good foundation for growth and many exciting plans ahead. With this prize and our continued work, we also hope to be able to contribute to putting Norwegian property further on the map in Europe."