The inaugural King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced, celebrating the achievements of UK businesses.
148 businesses representing every part of the UK and a diverse range of sectors have been recognised by His Majesty The King as among the best in the country.
Minister for Enterprise, Kevin Hollinrake, commented: “I congratulate the first ever recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise, who exemplify the talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of British business.
“I wish them every success and commend the invaluable contributions they make to communities both at home and overseas, helping to grow the UK economy.”
Preschool brands were awarded in two categories, with Bibado and Doddl winning in the innovation category, while Atelier, Frog Bikes and Green Sheep Group were recognised for their contribution to international trade.
Roger Allen, chief executive of Green Sheep Group, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to be recognised with this prestigious award specifically for our endeavours in international trade. When we started out, we were solely a UK-based company with just UK customers. However, as our product range grew and we launched new innovations, the opportunity for international expansion was evident and six years on, we have grown from selling to retailers in six countries, to selling on a wholesale basis to retailers in 30 countries. Adding in direct consumer customers, we now export to 45 countries around the world.
“The King’s Award is highly regarded on both a national and international platform and will have a significant impact on the future of our business. I am so proud of our team and all the work they put into the business – this is their award. Over the past three years our turnover has grown by 142% and our international sales by over 198%, and our Queen’s Award in 2018 undoubtedly contributed to our overall success.
“We have restructured our entire sales operation to better support our valued UK partners. And we can now move forward with further investments in International. The timing of our Award is outstanding news ”
Nominations for the 2024 awards open on Coronation Day – Saturday 6 May, 2023.
