Frequently overheard at many a meeting or conference at the beginning of this year was the phrase, "Things will have to be better than last year!" And as 2010 progresses there are signs of a turnaround, as well as expected difficulty ahead. But enough time has passed in the shipping crisis to determine the quality of survival of the industry - stubbornly alive and kicking - and to spot those who have persisted and prevailed, even in a difficult environment. Indeed, as the lessons of 2009 turn into the opportunities of 2010, new approaches to old problems are beginning to emerge. Success in shipping has always required a happy confluence of vision, experience and timing. Individuals and companies are now harnessing these attributes to lead the market out of its slump.

This makes Lloyd's List's timing of its annual global awards for 2010 all the more pertinent. We will convene on 29 September at the prestigious Dorchester hotel on London's Park Lane to recognise the best of the global maritime industry for innovation, vision, sound financial performance, bravery at sea, and responsibility to the environment, among other characteristics.

This year we have honed and focused our categories to celebrate the most central disciplines essential to the survival and prosperity of shipping. Weighing and evaluating the entries will be a daunting task, but one that our panel of judges is undertaking with huge commitment. The response to our call for entries for the Lloyd's List Global Awards has been growing year by year, we anticipate strong and competitive turnout in 2010. I extend this invitation to all parties in the maritime industry to bring forward your best and apply.

Good luck - and see you at the Global Awards.

Tom Leander
Editorial Director, Lloyd's List