New Start-Up Company of the Year

The Business Awards for Wales are an initiative of the IWA and the Western Mail, in association with PwC

The New Start-Up Company of the Year Award is being sponsored by Newport-based price comparison site Gocompare.com

The three finalists are Direct Healthcare Services, AutosOnShow.TV (which trades at Life OnShow and AE Insulation.

Caerphilly-based Direct Healthcare Services began trading in April, 2009 and provides specialist mattresses, cushions and overlays for the healthcare sector.

As well as driving impressive revenue growth in the UK, it is now focusing on the lucrative export market.

Formed in October last year Cardiff-based Life On Show provides the technology that allows businesses to stream video online and create their own TV portals.

It has developed a video marketing solution for the automotive sector, where its market share amongst car dealers is growing at a rapid pace. Some 82% of its revenue is derived outside of Wales.

Cardiff-based AE Insulation is a family-run business set up in 2008. It provides cavity wall and loft insulation, as well as energy products and general maintenance, to both the domestic and commercial markets. Its growing client base includes housing associations and charities.

Hayley Parsons, founder and chief executive officer of Gocompare.com, said: “Gocompare.com is a young business, and I know how difficult it can be to launch and grow a company. But it’s also very rewarding and I think that it’s important to acknowledge the sacrifices people make and the risks they take when starting up on their own.

“Wales is full of creative and driven people who are working hard to make their companies a success, and awards like these are a great way to acknowledge this hard work and help boost the profile of new businesses.”

The overall sponsors are professional advisory firm PwC.

Copy written by Rhodri Evans

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