Better Business Bureau of Eastern NC 2011 Torch Award Finalists

Online, January 17, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina has named Matthews Motors and National Pawn/National Fine Jewelers as finalists for its 2011 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.

The Better Business Bureau Torch Awards were created to showcase ethical companies and charities in eastern North Carolina that build trust, advertise honestly, tell the truth, remain transparent, and honor their promises. Spotlighting these companies and charities fits the BBB mission to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust.

"To me, it speaks volumes that their intense dedication to exceptional customer service and business practices that these two companies, who each come from lines of business that have historically been associated with a less than stellar reputation, have been able to rise above and set examples for not just its own industry, but for the entire marketplace in eastern North Carolina in how to conduct business in the proper way," said Toby Barfield, president and CEO of BBB serving Eastern North Carolina.

The Better Business Bureau Torch Award entries were evaluated by an independent panel of judges from business communities in eastern North Carolina. The winner will be announced at the Annual Meeting of BBB Accredited Businesses held on January 18, 2012, at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina.

For more information on The Better Business Bureau Torch Awards, visit http://easternnc.bbb.org/torch-awards/

The Better Business Bureau Standards for Trust

Build Trust
Establish and maintain a positive track record in the marketplace.

Advertise Honestly
Adhere to established standards of advertising and selling.

Tell the Truth
Honestly represent products and services, including clear and adequate disclosures of all material terms.

Be Transparent
Openly identify the nature, location, and ownership of the business, and clearly disclose all policies, guarantees and procedures that bear on a customer's decision to buy.

Honor Promises
Abide by all written agreements and verbal representations.

Be Responsive
Address marketplace disputes quickly, professionally, and in good faith.

Safeguard Privacy
Protect any data collected against mishandling and fraud, collect personal information only as needed, and respect the preferences of consumers regarding the use of their information.

Embody Integrity
Approach all business dealings, marketplace transactions and commitments with integrity.