This category recognises how, through exporting activity, the company has been able to increase international sales; demonstrate a commitment to expanding international business; and demonstrate the value and contribution of exporting to the future of the business.

This category recognises great breadth and depth of leadership and management skills, and successful implementation of a clear, well-communicated business strategy. Candidates demonstrate strategic thinking; innovative practices; improved commercial performance and competitiveness; and engagement with employees, customers, suppliers and the local community.

This category recognises effective lean methodologies that improve quality, cost, productivity, waste reduction, customer service, and safety, while strengthening supply chain resilience through enhanced visibility, adaptability, and collaboration. It rewards an engaged workforce and a lasting culture of continuous improvement supporting operational excellence and responsiveness to disruption. 

For businesses with a turnover of over £100 million.

*Entry submission opening soon*

This category recognises effective lean methodologies that improve quality, cost, productivity, waste reduction, customer service, and safety, while strengthening supply chain resilience through enhanced visibility, adaptability, and collaboration. It rewards an engaged workforce and a lasting culture of continuous improvement supporting operational excellence and responsiveness to disruption.

For businesses with a turnover up to £100 million.

*Entry submission opening soon*

This category recognises a company culture that promotes learning, focusing on talent and performance, as well as encouraging openness among employees about their development needs. The criteria also measures how the company is assessing and addressing both the current and future skill needs of the business.

This category recognises outstanding product innovation throughout the business, leading to substantial growth, enhanced commercial performance, and expanded market share. This award acknowledges the establishment of robust NPD/NPI processes that consistently generate new or improved products, meeting evolving customer requirements.

This category recognises the best use of data and technology to maximise competitive advantage within the manufacturing facility. From design and innovation, to supply chain and operations, this award looks at how data is gathered and used effectively to improve decision making, develop the design process and control machinery and equipment.

This category looks for a sustainable approach to business that has improved commercial performance, competitiveness, employee engagement, and customer and supplier perception. It also rewards innovative practices; future sustainability plans and awareness; and the greatest commitment to reducing its impact on the environment.

A team demonstrating outstanding strategic thinking - using insights, planning, and marketing engagement to drive revenue and growth. Showcasing how their customer strategy improved market share, enabled innovation, and strengthened delivery and customer engagement.

*Entry submission opening soon*

An individual who has been instrumental in championing equity, diversity and inclusion within their organisation. They act as a catalyst for positive cultural change, embedding ED&I into everyday practice and inspiring others to contribute to a more inclusive workplace.

*Entry submission opening soon*

A figurehead who has created wealth and stable employment at a UK-based manufacturer, while remaining committed to developing the value of their manufacturing business through people, processes and technology.

*Entry submission opening soon*

An individual who has been instrumental in inspiring their company to step up to the sustainability challenge and is driving the journey towards net zero within their organisation – shining a beacon on sustainability in the workplace and influencing a real positive change in the business.

*Entry submission opening soon*

An individual who has made a significant impact within their organisation’s journey towards digital transformation. A champion and adopter of game-changing technologies that has helped move the business from an analogue past to a digital future, and in turn has increased productivity and decreased costs. 

*Entry submission opening soon*

This category is aimed at individuals who have demonstrated a strong understanding of their manufacturing environment and processes; a hands-on passion for their work; a record of commitment to training and professional development; and an ambition to excel in industry. For manufacturers aged 19-30.