Made in the South East Awards 2022
We were delighted to once again be proud sponsors of the Made in the South East Awards alongside EMC and HSBC UK.
The prestigious awards were held at Sofitel London Gatwick, last Thursday 17th November. Their aim is to recognise the manufacturing companies in the region that have built reputations for their high quality products, services and the skills of the people they employ.
Carpenter Box Partner, Tony Summers enjoyed presenting the award in the category, Manufacturer of the Year (over £25m). Contract Candles (pictured), were equally delighted to receive it.
Awards Round up
Digital Engineering/Technology Award
Sponsored by EMC
Winner: Innovative Physics
Innovative Physics is a world-renowned research and development company specialising in evolving technologies such as sensor technology and AI, principally in the nuclear, homeland security and medical sectors. The judges were impressed that it has developed world-class technology and equipment at a rapid, cost-effective rate, providing its customers with a strong competitive edge.
Shortlisted:
Industrial Engineering Plastics Limited (IEP)
Kentec Electronics
7thSense
Integration Technology
Manufacturing Apprenticeship/Training Scheme Award
Winner: Focus SB
Focus SB is a premium electrical accessories manufacturer supplying private and contract markets. The judges were impressed with how the business has built links with local schools, colleges and universities and the value all its apprentices bring to the business.
Shortlisted:
Adelphi Group of Companies
The Meliora Group
Food & Drink Award
Winner: Higgidy
Predominantly veggie-led, Higgidy makes a range of pies, rolls, quiches and slices, with a core mission of baking food that makes a difference to people, communities, and the planet. It has seen market penetration increase during the year to 8.7 per cent. The judges were particularly impressed with the fact that Higgidy is now B Corp certified, a highly prized accreditation.
Shortlisted:
Kent Crisps
Hepworth Brewery
Kentish Oils and Condiments
Apprentice of the Year Award
Winner: Emily Salmon, Adelphi Group of Companies
Emily has been doing a BTEC Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship at Adelphi. Her personal and interpersonal skills set her apart from other apprentices. The judges noted that, in a short period of time, Emily has become a role model for more junior members of staff for her outstanding professionalism and commitment.
Shortlisted:
Oliver Bigg, The Meliora Group
Ryan Edwards, Focus SB
Export Award
Winner: 7thSense
7thSense invents, develops, and manufactures specific ranges of hardware and software for attractions, science centres, theme parks and live events worldwide. Its principal export markets are in the US, Japan, Australia and India. The judges felt the company’s significant export growth and its heavy investment in the development of its next generation product lines, made 7thSense the outstanding exporter this year.
Shortlisted:
SI Protech
English Soap Company
Amazon Filters
HV Wooding
Cleenol
Pharma Hygiene Products
Focus SB
Kent Crisps
Manufacturing Innovation Award
Winner: Daniamant
Daniamant produces survivor location lights for the marine commercial markets legislated for under the Marine Equipment Directive and Safety of Life at Sea. Its ODEO Distress Flare is an innovative alternative to the pyrotechnic red hand flare as it reduces the risk of potential burns or damage to a user or life raft. The judges felt that this highly innovative product stood out as it has been produced in such a highly regulated market.
Highly commended: Paxton Access
Shortlisted:
Marshall-Tufflex
AbBaltis
English Soap Company
Innovative Physics
Sustainable/Ethical Manufacturer Award
Winner: Bluelite
Bluelite is a vehicle livery specialist supplying vehicle livery, chevrons and markings to corporate fleets and the majority of police, fire and ambulance services across the country. The company is committed to minimising its carbon footprint and has invested in local renewable energy generation. The judges were particularly impressed with Bluelite’s use of low-solvent inks for printing graphics, LED lighting throughout its facilities and electric vehicles for service support.
Shortlisted:
Goupie
Oxford Health Company
Cleenol
Focus SB
Manufacturer of the Year (under £25m)
Sponsored by HSBC UK
Winner: Industrial Engineering Plastics (IEP)
IEP is the UKs leading specialist in the design, fabrication, installation and, commissioning of safety critical engineering plastics and ancillaries for fume extraction, chemical storage and odour abatement. The judges felt that the company’s heavy investment in doubling its site footprint and increasing headcount, as well as its investment to staff training and company culture, made it the outstanding candidate in this category.
Shortlisted:
HV Wooding
Diespeker
Kentec Electronics
PolarSeal
Manufacturer of the Year (over £25m)
Sponsored by Carpenter Box
Winner: Contract Candles
Contract Candles is a family-owned business which has been manufacturing candles since 1997, specialising in producing the very finest hand-poured candles and diffusers for some of the world’s best-known luxury brands. The company’s huge recent growth has led it to open two new sites and three additional warehouse units over the past 12 months. This, and its strong sustainability credentials, made Contract Candles the manufacturer of the year according to the judges.
Shortlisted:
Amazon Filters
Higgidy
Congratulations to all on the evening from all of us here at Carpenter Box. For more information around how we can work towards the betterment of your manufacturing business, contact our manufacturing team or give us a call on 01903 234094.