The finalists have been announced and appearing on the list is the names of three local businesses.

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists in the 2012 Achievement in Business Excellence (ABEX) Awards. In total, 46 nominations from outstanding Saskatchewan businesses were selected as finalists within the 10 ABEX categories. Of the 46, three are from Yorkton. Nominated in the Growth & Expansion category are Crusader Drilling Corp., Yorkton Plumbing & Heating and Ram Industries.

“The quality and diversity of these finalists really showcases the way in which Saskatchewan’s economy is taking a leadership role within Canada, and across the global stage,” says Steve McLellan, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.

“This year’s slate of nominees is an interesting combination of established businesses with proven achievement records and more recent enterprises that truly show the innovative nature of the latest generation of Saskatchewan entrepreneurs.”

This year will mark the 29th anniversary of the ABEX Awards, Saskatchewan’s largest celebration of private sector achievement. The event is hosted by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, and presented by Conexus Credit Union. The ABEX is open to any private sector business registered within the province, regardless of size, location or industry.

The 2012 ABEX gala, set for October 20th at the Delta Hotel in Regina, is themed as a tribute to commemorate the 130th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Tickets for the event are on sale now at www.saskchamber.com.

Announcement of the 2012 recipients of the Hall of Fame and Business Leader of the Year will be made prior to the event. The Business of the Year ABEX Award will be announced at the event October 20.