600 UK, a Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire based machine tools and precision-engineered components manufacturer, has been named a British manufacturing champion after scooping a prestigious national business award. 600 UK, which employs 85 staff, manufacturing Colchester and Harrison manual and CNC lathes, Pratt Burnerd International Workholding and Gamet Bearings, walked away with silver at the EEF/Aldermore Future Manufacturing Awards, held in London last week. The company was runner-up for the Business Efficiency Award, which celebrates the achievements of manufacturers that have successfully designed and delivered new operating practices to boost productivity and business performance.
600 UK was selected by a panel of judges drawn from business leaders, industry experts and academics and was up against tough competition from a range of dynamic businesses, small and large, from across the UK, making its success even more impressive. The judges were won over by the company’s dedication, determination and drive to boost efficiency. It had learned some very difficult lessons from outsourcing and by moving back to the UK it achieved many benefits not just in terms of profitability, but also apprenticeships, training and sustainability. The shortened supply chain created by reshoring manufacturing gave 600 UK agility and flexibility to respond to customers’ needs.
Mike Berry, Managing Director at 600 UK says: “There are so many fantastic manufacturers in the UK – to be runner-up for this national award is a massive compliment and a huge achievement for our staff. Manufacturing is a thriving industry that drives jobs, growth and prosperity and we hope our success will encourage other manufacturers to step forward and share their achievements. It’s clear that our value is being increasingly recognised. We’re all delighted and feel that our hard work and dedication has paid off.”
Mark Stephens, Deputy CEO of Aldermore, says: “Despite its value to the UK economy, manufacturing is an unsung hero. These awards go some way towards shining a light on the dedication, commitment and innovation going on each and every day in this dynamic and exciting sector.
“The constant quest for better and more effective ways of doing things plays a critical part in success. 600 UK has to be applauded for taking great strides in improving efficiency and in being named runner-up for this national award.”
The hunt for next year’s Future Manufacturing Awards winners has already started and other manufacturers are being encouraged to follow in 600 UK’s footsteps.
More information about the awards: www.eef.org.uk/campaigning/awards-and-competitions/future-manufacturing-awards.
