These "oscars" for the marketing profession are centred on the strategic value of marketing as a driver of business value, and they will highlight excellence and best practice in all areas of marketing.

From left to right: Paula Murphy - Marketing Director of Independent Newspapers, Tom Trainor, Chief Executive, The Marketing Institute of Ireland Geoff Lyons, Brand Manager Irish Independent Tom Mc Enaney, Business Editor Irish Independent

Speaking at the launch of the 2008 programme at Croke Park, Tom Trainor, Chief Executive of The Marketing Institute of Ireland said, "Marketing is the main driver of sustainable profits. These awards are designed to recognise the outstanding contribution that marketing and sales professionals across our island make to their businesses and to the overall economy, by delivering exceptional business results".

Michael Carey, Executive Chairman of Jacob Fruitfield Fruit Group and President of the Marketing Institute of Ireland, added "The All Ireland Marketing Awards ensure high profile and recognition for Irish marketing professionals and their companies. The finalists act as role models for aspiring practitioners and they showcase the impact of marketing excellence in making business successful".

Speaking about the role of the Irish Independent as media partner to the awards, Paula Murphy, Marketing Director of Independent Newspapers, said "The Irish Independent's involvement in the All-Ireland Marketing Awards is a representation of our commitment to building the knowledge base and rewarding the professionalism of the marketing community. For the Irish economy to grow and thrive we all know how important it is to encourage and support marketing best practice, and we take pride in recognising the finalists and winners".

The comprehensive range of awards within the programme reflect the full range of marketing disciplines, including sales, international marketing, advertising, PR, sponsorship management and e-marketing. Those entering the awards programme can either nominate themselves or be nominated. Entries are submitted online and the closing date for entries is Friday 8th February 2008.

A panel of expert adjudicators, chaired by Matt Kavanagh, Deputy Chairman of The Marketing Institute of Ireland, will meet all finalists during April 2008 and select the winners. These will remain a closely-guarded secret until the glitzy Gala Dinner on Thursday 22nd May 2008 at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin, when they will be announced on stage by MC Bryan Dobson.

Last year's All-Ireland Marketing Winners included Tourism Ireland, Vivas Health, Coca-Cola Ireland, University of Ulster, Bulmers and AIB Bank.