This year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise honour 26 North West companies for their exceptional achievements.
- These businesses excel in global trade, innovation, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility.
- Winners include industry leaders from diverse fields such as AI, corduroy manufacturing, and sound recording.
- Notable companies like Timpson and AMS Neve received recognition for their significant contributions.
- The awards, previously known as The Queen’s Awards, have recognized outstanding UK businesses since 1965.
An Oscar-winning sound recording specialist and a high street powerhouse that helps prisoners back into the workplace are among this year’s winners of King’s Awards for Enterprise in the North West. This year 252 UK companies have been honoured by King Charles as among the best in the country. There are 26 North West winners in fields from AI to corduroy manufacturing and from eyelash extensions to titanium motorbike fittings. The awards recognise firms for their outstanding achievement in four categories – Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity through social mobility.
Manchester AI specialist Digitech Oasis secured an International Trade award. CEO Ayan Mohamed Ali stated, “For over four years, the team at Digitech Oasis has been on a mission to transform industries through AI, making technology more accessible for all.” The King’s Award acknowledges their efforts to push boundaries and deliver exceptional services.
AMS Neve, a Burnley-based sound recording specialist, received the award for International Trade. Known for developing sound consoles used by blockbuster filmmakers and rock stars, AMS Neve saw its overseas revenue, total turnover, and net profits double in the past three years. “To receive the King’s Award is a great honour for the company and our dedicated team,” said founder Mark Crabtree.
Sambro International, a global toy supplier, was honoured for its international trade success. CEO Paul Blackaby commented, “Our award recognises a period of growth for Sambro spanning the last three years and the expansion of our European business.” Sambro’s relationships with entertainment giants like Disney and Marvel were pivotal in their success.
Timpson Group, recognized for Promoting Opportunity, has been commended for its work rehabilitating former prisoners. CEO James Timpson stated, “We have received this award due to being one of the largest employers of ex-offenders and others who face barriers to employment in the UK.” Their inclusive employment practices have significantly contributed to reducing re-offending rates.
Seda Pharmaceutical Development Services from Stockport, honoured for International Trade, has seen remarkable short-term growth in overseas sales. CEO Dr. Paul Stott said, “We are absolutely delighted that Seda has been recognised with this prestigious award. Our global partnerships now account for more than half of our business.”
Safety Shield Global, a Cheshire firm, was awarded for its innovation in developing an AI safety system for heavy machinery. Founder Jonathan Guest noted, “This award represents recognition of the resolution, vigour and dedication of our team.” Their technology, which reduces the risk of serious injury on construction sites, is a significant advancement in workplace safety.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise highlight the outstanding contributions and innovations of UK businesses, with North West companies playing a pivotal role.