~ Houghton International named SME of the Year at 2022 Make UK National Awards ~
Houghton International, a leading innovator in the field of electro mechanical assets repair, maintenance and life extension, competed against companies from across the UK, before securing two awards at the Make UK National Awards. The company was awarded the noteworthy prize of SME Manufacturer of the Year and came runner-up in the Developing Future Talent category.
The award has been developed to champion businesses with less than 250 employees who have blazed a trail within the manufacturing sector. Winners have proven that they have led by example and developed progressive best practice for others in the industry. They have shown exceptional initiative, boldness and dynamism, as well as exemplary management practices.
Houghton International was commended for its company culture and innovation-led approach. Their people strategy, which combines extensive training and development opportunities with a range of employee benefits and a bonus scheme, also received recognition. Houghton International also received credit for its established apprenticeship programme, which has seen many apprentices rise to senior roles within the company.
Many have struggled to come to terms with their new reality following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Houghton International rose to this challenge. Its approach to wellbeing during this time was praised by the Make UK judges, particularly the hard work and dedication the company has to its customers and employees.
“These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working in engineering and manufacturing,” commented Dawn Huntrod, regional membership manager for Make UK in the North East. “The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in the North East and, as we re-build our economy, there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.”
Michael Mitten, CEO of Houghton International, commented, “Taking home not one, but two national accolades from the Make UK awards really is an incredible achievement. It’s a testament to our positive, innovation-led culture, excellent people, and the way we go about our business with integrity at the heart of all we do.”
Houghton International plans to build on this win by continuing its innovation-led approach as the business looks to the future and how it can best support established and emerging sectors in a rapidly electrifying world.
For more information about the company’s innovative approach, visit Houghton International.
