Factory scoops 'highest UK award' for business success

A NEW Milton factory which supplies silicon products internationally for dairy and medical industries has scooped a prestigious national business award.

The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade – billed as the UK’s highest accolade for business success – was presented to Silclear, which is based on the Gore Road industrial estate.

Among the factory’s creations are products designed to ensure the safe transportation and collection of milk in dairy installations across the globe.

Silclear managing director Ian Bradbury said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have won this award.

“This award recognises the hard work, commitment and contribution of everyone who has been part of our team, particularly over recent years.

“In the current environment it is also a reminder of the progress we have made and the opportunity we have to continue to develop and deliver outstanding products for our customers, to ensure their businesses continue to thrive.”

The company has gained much demand from international customers, with overseas sales having surged by 76% over three years and exports now accounting for 88% of total sales.

The company is part of the Skellerup Group, a New Zealand-based global designer, manufacturer and distributor of polymer products and vacuum systems. It provides solutions for customers in dairy rubberware, water and related infrastructure.

The highly-prized Queen's Awards for Enterprise recognise outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and social mobility.

Winners are chosen by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister, who is assisted by an advisory committee including representatives of government, industry and commerce, and the trade unions.