Lancashire manufacturers win Red Rose Awards

A number of SME manufacturers, including several supported by our Manufacturing Growth Fund, were recognised with awards at Lancashire’s 2022 Red Rose Awards in June.

The Red Rose Awards are Lancashire’s biggest annual business celebration, with more than 1,000 people in attendance at the awards ceremony in Blackpool on 9 June.

Among the 2022 winners were three manufacturers that have benefitted from grants for specialist consultancy projects through the Lancashire Manufacturing Growth Fund.

Equestrian Surfaces in Burnley, which manufactures and installs artificial surfaces for equine enthusiasts, won the Green Award for demonstrating effective eco-initiatives. Thomas Harper, Director, said:

“Our green initiatives have been at the forefront of our development plans for some time now, but particularly over the last twelve months we’ve been making significant investments into incorporating practices which will boost our sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint. This award is a testament to the efforts that have been made by the whole team, who have consistently demonstrated a commitment to greener practices.”

Strongdor, a manufacturer of high quality steel doors in Carnforth, won the Medium Business Award after judges were impressed by its continual investment during the pandemic, including the opening of a new manufacturing facility. Managing Director Tim Devinish commented:

“We are all delighted to have been awarded the prestigious honour. Having moved to our new manufacturing facility in 2021, our production capacity has more than tripled and our staff numbers have almost doubled. Without the continued dedication of our team who strive to maintain our mission, our journey would not have been possible.”

Slingco, which manufactures cable grip and wire rope products in Rawtenstall, won the Export Award, with judges praising the company’s “clear strategy, strong processes and courageous investments” in achieving overseas success.

Other leading manufacturers receiving awards on the night included Nelson-based PDS CNC Engineering, which won the Resilience Award in recognition of its work to overcome major challenges during the pandemic.

Speaking at the ceremony, Richard Slater, Founder of the Lancashire Business View magazine and awards organiser, said:

“Every company that made the shortlist was worthy of recognition from their peers. In fact, the adversity that many faced through the pandemic makes these success stories all the more impressive. A huge congratulations to everybody nominated, and especially those who triumphed.”

The Lancashire Manufacturing Growth Fund offers SME manufacturers grants of up to £8,999 to bring in specialist consultancy or invest in new technologies.

For more information, visit lancashiremanufacturing.co.uk