Blackburn-based MGS Technical Plastics has been recognised for its commitment to making its manufacturing processes more environmentally friendly and to training and developing an engaged workforce.
The company was awarded the Manufacturing Excellence Award at the Northern Automotive Alliance (NAA) Awards 2018 on the 8th November. MGS were also shortlisted for another award, the People & Skills Excellence Award.
MGS operates 20 machines ranging from 35 tonnes to 900 tonnes, producing bespoke plastic components for a range of industries and serving as a tier 1 and 2 supplier to some of the biggest automotive companies in the world.
The award win follows a multi-year, seven-figure investment project which has seen the company move to new premises and invest in new machinery and leaner processes.
The judges of the award were particularly impressed by the programme of improvement focusing on reducing energy use. Investments include the introduction of Thingtrax ‘internet of things' software which monitors the usage of all machines and helps identify smarter ways to operate them.
In addition, MGS recently invested £43,000 on a 49Kw solar panel unit and employs a recycling system to grind leftover sprues ready for reuse.
MGS was also acknowledged for its ongoing training and personal development programmes which cater for all employees, including apprenticeships and long-term college courses.
Judson Smythe, technical director, said: "MGS has gone from strength to strength and what's really exciting is we still haven't even begun to realise our full potential. The vision, to be a world-renowned technical manufacturer, will be achieved in the near future, of that we are all certain."
Mark Preston, sales director, added: "This award is just the beginning of what's to come. These are just the foundation bricks being laid thanks to all the hard work and determination of every single member of MGS. Watch this space, it's going to be a spectacular future."
MGS collected the award at a prize-giving ceremony held in Cheshire. The master of ceremonies and guest speaker, Red Dwarf star and Scrapheap Challenge presenter Robert Llewellyn, entertained the audience with stories about his adventures with electric vehicles.
The Northern Automotive Alliance is an independent, not-for-profit company which provides a membership service to the automotive community. The NAA Awards were launched to showcase the successes of vehicle manufacturers, supply chain companies and service providers in the region.
Rowan Egan, NAA chief executive, added: "As my first Awards event as NAA chief executive, it was impressive to see the diverse range of companies in the Northern region that are offering world-class products and services."