A north Cumbrian firm is celebrating after being officially presented with one of the highest awards to be handed to British businesses.
OEE Container Technology Limited, based in Westlinton, near Carlisle, won a King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
It was officially presented to the family firm, a leader in providing engineering services to the global food and beverage can manufacturing industry, by Alexander Scott, Lord Lieutenant of Cumbria at a ceremony at the company’s headquarters.
Mr Scott said: “This is a most prestigious award and was very well deserved. Whilst many companies apply for the award, only a small number satisfy the rigorous standards set by the judging panel.
“OEE Container Technology Limited have demonstrated not only excellent vision but also excellent execution of that vision, especially in customer service.”
The event was attended by employees, suppliers, customers, family, friends, and dignitaries including Deputy Lieutenant Marcia Reid Fotheringham, Deputy Lieutenant Tess Hart and the Conservative MP for Carlisle, John Stevenson.
Mr Stevenson said: “It was an absolute pleasure to accept an invitation to join Bruce and Sue Jones of OEE Container Technology, as they received the well deserved accolade and first ever King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.
“It is good to see a successful business with a vision for the future rewarded. Congratulations to Bruce, Sue and family, and all those involved.”
The King’s Award for Enterprise is the highest accolade that can be awarded to a British business. It recognises British companies for their excellence in innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and social mobility.
Winners of the award are granted the privilege to use the King’s Award emblem for five years, symbolising excellence and quality on a global stage. OEE Container Technology’s recognition underlines its dynamic growth and successful expansion in the global food and beverage can manufacturing market.
Sue Jones, managing director of OEE, said: “This accolade is a reflection of the strong relationships we’ve built with our global clients. It fuels our drive to continue enhancing our services and solutions within the can manufacturing industry.”
Bruce Jones, managing director of OEE, added: “This award is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication. It motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries and expand our reach in the international market.”
Since establishing a new office in the United Arab Emirates in 2022, OEE has continued to secure substantial international projects. The company maintains strong relationships with some of the largest food and beverage can manufacturers globally, and equipment manufacturers in the UK and US, as well as with the UK Government, to support this growth.
OEE employs a highly skilled multi-national engineering team and has successfully completed projects across Europe, the Middle East, North America, South America, and Asia.
