Ford scoops top magazine award

A South Tyneside firm has picked up a major prize at the highly-prestigious EEF Future Manufacturing Awards in recognition of its exporting success.

Ford, which includes Ford Aerospace and Ford Component Manufacturing Ltd, was awarded the Highly Commended certificate in the regional Outstanding Export category.

The company received acknowledgement for the way it boosted staff and processes in preparation for an assault on the Indian and Chinese markets, which has since proved successful.

Meanwhile, judges at the awards were also impressed by the manufacturer's plans to move into the emerging markets of Turkey, Brazil, Russia and South Africa.

After drawing up a strong export plan, the company made a multi-million pound investment in new machinery to make sure it was ready to perform overseas.

Ford received Investors in People Gold accreditation for the way it not only ensured state-of-the-art systems were in place but also spent cash improving staff, which was seen as a demonstration of the firm's commitment to continued growth.

Ford managing director, Mark Podmore, stressed that the firm's export strategy remains essential, with the success achieved so far helping the company achieve continued growth.

Ford also received praise on a national level after being named as a finalist in the SME Manufacturer of the Year and The ICT Award categories at The Manufacturer magazine awards.

Mr Podmore, said: “To do so well at the EEF Future Manufacturing Awards is tremendous praise of the talents of staff at Ford, including those in our dedicated export team, who worked hard to implement the detailed export strategy needed to expand.

“The strategy underpins our progression into new and exciting markets, and is continuing to drive us forward.

“I’m also delighted that Ford has made it as a finalist in not one but two national awards, which is an excellent achievement.”

© Press Association 2012