Norbert Dentress-angle Group

The Norbert Dentressangle Group, provider of logistics and a full-range of transport services, won the large enterprise award in the growth category. Despite strong competition on the international market, the company showed continuous and sustainable growth over the years. Its turnover amounted to 11.3% in the transport sector alone in 2005.

Somfy International

 Somfy International, the winner of the SME prize in this category, provides comfort and convenience with its remote control devices for garage doors, rolling shutters and awnings. Over the period between 2002 and 2005 the company was able to enhance its global presence with strong growth, in large part due to its innovative approach to its products.

PSA Peugeot Citroën

One of Europe's traditional automotive manufacturers took home the large enterprise award in this category. PSA Peugeot Citroën is Europe's second largest car manufacturer with a market share of 14%. Members of the jury were impressed by the group's strong 10% market share in more than ten European countries.

International Metal Service S.A.

Europe leader in special steel distribution, the International Metal Service S.A. (IMG) was crowned the winner in the SME section of this category. Three-quarters of the company's business is in Europe. The jury also praised IMG's recent expansion to Central and Eastern Europe, where it realized 10% of its turnover in 2005.

Pernod Ricard

Winner in the large enterprise segment in this category was wine and spirit manufacturer, Pernod Ricard. Its acquisition of UK competitor, Allied Domecq, consolidated the company's status as the second largest global liquor company.

Dassault Systèmes

For the second year in a row, Dassault Systèmes, was honored with a Best of European Business award. Founded in 1981, the company is the world leader in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software solutions. It also specializes in 3-D construction software. In its decision, the jury underlined Dassault's successful takeover of Abaqus, a manufacturer of software for routine and sophisticated linear and nonlinear engineering problems and simulation software. With this acquisition, the jury stressed, Dassault would be able to set the global standard for this type of specialized software.

Vallourec

Vallourec, manufacturer of hot-rolled, seamless steel tubing was awarded the evening's Grand Prix. The jury was impressed with its strong performance across the board, with strong growth figures (CAGR 2002-2005:17,5%), a successful takeover of US American competitor OMSCO and its pan-European revenue increase: it brings in a third of its turnover from EU countries other than France.