2014 MERCURIADES: The FCCQ announces the launch of the 34th edition of Québec's most prestigious business awards

MONTREAL, Sept. 16, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - The Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (FCCQ) is proud to announce the launch of the 2014 Mercuriades Awards. These coveted awards honour excellence and expertise in the Québec business community.

Businesses of all sizes have until December 17, 2013, to submit a nomination package in one of ten categories:

• Productivity Improvement
• Export and International Market Development (SMBs only)
• Vocational and Technical Training
• Proactive Workforce Management
• Investissement Québec Innovation
• Health and Safety in the Workplace
• Sustainable Development
• Germaine Gibara Leadership Award (open to businesswomen)
• Mérite Maurice Pollack Award
• Contribution to Economic Regional Development

Those interested in obtaining further information on the competition can visit www.mercuriades.com or call 514-844-9571 or 1-800-361-5019 (toll-free).

The best of the best: Business of the Year

All winners in their categories will be automatically shortlisted for the top award of Business of the Year. Last year's winners were Olymel and Groupe C. Laganière in the large business and SMB categories, respectively.

"Québec is growing and prospering because of the significant contributions made by these innovative companies. The Mercuriades Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the success, the vision and the courage of our entrepreneurs, who are true role models for the next generation of business professionals," said FCCQ CEO Françoise Bertrand.

The names of the winning companies will be unveiled at a gala evening on April 30, 2014, at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. The 2014 honorary chair is Denis Richard, president of La Coop fédérée.

"This competition represents a great opportunity for businesses to take stock of their activities and achievements—a necessary step in preparing their nomination package—and to develop and explore numerous business opportunities," stated Mr Richard.

Created and organized by the FCCQ since 1981, the Mercuriades Awards have evolved over the years to adapt to the economic realities in Québec, by adjusting the various categories to take into account the changing contexts that businesses must face to continue to operate and grow.

For this 34th edition, the FCCQ is proud to be able to count on the support of such prominent sponsors as La Coop fédérée, Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton, 98,5 FM, La Presse and RDI.

About the FCCQ
With its wide network of more than 150 chambers of commerce and 1,200 businesses, the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (FCCQ) represents more than 60,000 businesses and 150,000 businesspeople involved in all sectors of the economy throughout Québec.
As the largest network of businesspeople and businesses in Québec, the FCCQ strongly supports its members' interests in matters of public policy, thus promoting an innovative and competitive business environment.

SOURCE: Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec

Camilla Sironi
Communications Advisor
Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec
Tel.: [phone] ext. 3227
Cell.: 514-647-4745
[email protected]