Calypso Rose (pictured), the creator of Clippykit bags and accessories, has been named the promotional marketing sector’s 2007 Entrepreneur of the Industry.

First launched in 2003, her handbags, bags, umbrellas, notepads and other products can be customised with an individual’s or company’s photographs or designs.

She was presented with her trophy at the British Promotional Merchandise Association Christmas Lunch and Awards yesterday (Wednesday 19 December) at the Riverbank Park Plaza hotel in London.

The four runners-up were Tricia Weener, managing director of integrated agency Intelligent Marketing, Evan Lewis, director of Everything Environmental, Tim Cadel, managing director of Business Baubles, and Matt Franks, director of Eco Incentives.

The award for recognising creativity and innovation was judged by Colin Lloyd, president of the Institute of Sales Promotion, Michelle Dewberry, winner of The Apprentice in 2006, Danny Bamping, managing director of Bedlam Puzzles, and Alistair Frost, Microsoft UK’s head of consumer marketing communications.

Clareville Communications, which has been promoting promotional marketing companies for 18 years, was named company of the year in the BPMA Awards, which were also presented yesterday.

The award for best newcomer went to Tomato Source, a supplier of “unusual” promotional merchandise, which was set up by Emma Beeson and Sophie Howes.

The best new product was the Ecobutton from Bright Ideas Global. This is a brandable USB plug-in device which, when pressed, puts a computer and monitor into energy-saving mode when not in use.

The best employer in the industry was Brunel Promotions, which employs 60 staff at its Bristol factory, supplying calendars and other promotional gifts.