WORCESTER-based Postcode Anywhere scoop-ed the Best Use of Technology in an Emerging Business accolade at the European Retail Solutions awards held at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole Hotel.

About 750 of the most prominent retailers and technologists assembled for the prestigious prize ceremony, with high street brands such as Boots, Harvey Nichols and Virgin Mobile all eager to secure the retail equivalent of an Oscar.

It was a nail-biting time for web services specialists Postcode Anywhere, for although it has received a string of national awards since the company's inception eight years ago, its achievements have never been officially acknowledged in European circles.

The judges looked for organisations that did not merely demonstrate the clear application of cutting-edge technology but had also displayed innovation, creativity, vision and the ability to take risks.

Guy Mucklow, Postcode Anywhere's managing director, said: "We've been fortunate enough to have acquired a cabinet full of nationally recognised awards, but this heralds a new era for us despite operating globally for some years. We've never really received any official acknowledgement.

"This adds testament to the fact our reputation is now gathering momentum in Europe."