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 businesses demonstrating how customer strategy has contributed to: increased growth or market share; optimised innovation; improved operational excellence; and enhanced customer delivery and engagement.

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 use of effective lean methodologies and techniques that focus on improvements in: quality; cost; productivity; physical waste reduction; customer service; and safety. It also rewards evidence of an engaged workforce and development of a lasting culture of continuous improvement.

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 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.

This category evaluates how businesses implement ED&I across their organisation, recognising their efforts in successful implementation, arising awareness on the topic and providing guidelines for structuring their strategies to achieve success.

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 an integrated supply chain strategy that embraces the whole business process, from raw materials or component procurement, through to customer delivery. Judges also look for demonstration of innovative thinking and measures to improve business performance, and improvements in the efficiency of operations to achieve greater agility, profitability and customer responsiveness.

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.