New Jersey touts one of the busiest ports in the world — and one of the most diverse populations anywhere.
It only makes sense that the Garden State is a hotbed for international business.
As a way to recognize that, the New Jersey District Export Council will hold its second annual New Jersey International Trade Awards on May 15 at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.
Four New Jersey companies will be honoroed: Repêchage, Route66 International, ZAGO Manufacturing Co. and Kallman Worldwide Inc.
The event, which recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions to international trade and commerce in New Jersey, will honor the companies in these four categories:
- Exporter of the Year: Repêchage;
- New Exporter of the Year: Route66 International;
- Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year: ZAGO Manufacturing Co.;
- Service Exporter of the Year: Kallman Worldwide Inc.
Susan Widmer, the executive secretary of the New Jersey District Export Council, said all of the honorees have a great story to tell.
“These one-of-a-kind awards celebrate excellence, innovation and commitment to global business development while inspiring fellow exporters,” she said.
“We are eager to see all the amazing achievements these companies continue to make in the future as NJITA award-winners. And we know these companies will continue to encourage others and find success as they represent what it means to be committed, strong-willed New Jersey export leaders.”
The NJDEC is a private, nonprofit organization that brings together experienced international businesspeople who provide guidance and assistance in international markets. It works closely with professionals of the U.S. Commercial Service in our region. DEC members also meet with federal, state and local elected officials to educate and inform them on trade policy issues impacting the region’s business community.
Widmer and the NJDEC offered thanks to the judges of the competition:
- Chris Edwards, CEO, Somerset County Business Partnership;
- Jim Kirkos, CEO, Meadowlands Chamber & Meadowlands Live!;
- Anthony Russo, president, Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey;
- Michele Siekerka, CEO, New Jersey Business & Industry Association.
This marks the second year of the event. Last year, the NJDEC honored:
- Exporter of the Year: Acrow Corp. of America (Acrow Bridge);
- New Exporter of the Year: Undercover Chocolate Company Inc.;
- Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year: Intelligent Security Systems;
- Service Exporter of the Year: Rowan University.
