FAST growing design and creative communications specialist Appleby Bowers were highly commended at a coveted awards ceremony to mark their expertise in the vending industry.

Bernie Bowers, managing director of the Prestwich firm, was honoured in the personal achievement category for his service to the industry, which spans more than 25 years. Mr Bowers was voted in the top three contenders for the accolade and picked up a special certificate to mark his achievement at the BT Innovation Awards 2004 in London.

Appleby Bowers, located at Bank House Studios in Warwick Street, work with some of the industry's biggest names, combining creative and innovative design projects with highly effective public relations campaigns.

Mr Bowers said: "We have unrivalled experience in vending and catering and believe that no-one knows the industry or works with so many diverse clients as we do.

"It was a great honour and privilege that our work was recognised at such an illustrious and important industry gathering."

The judges paid tribute to the high quality entries that numbered almost 100, as some of the industry's biggest movers and shakers converged to pay tribute to the best in the business. Meanwhile, Appleby Bowers helped nationwide vending management specialist Coffee Point secure the best operator title after compiling the winning entry.