Institution news
The largest annual awards programme in the UK manufacturing calendar is delivered by The Manufacturer in partnership with the Institution. The three-course dinner and awards ceremony, with 850 guests, was held at the new Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham, where guests were entertained by impressionist and comedian Rory Bremner.
The annual awards are dedicated to encouraging and promoting competitive manufacturing in the UK, and celebrating the very best in the industry. This year the event was the culmination of an intense four-month judging period. Over 40 experienced judges collectively travelled extensively to conduct site visits in order to benchmark the companies. Over 50 manufacturing businesses were represented.
Philippa Oldham, the Institution’s Head of Manufacturing, said: “The TMMX Awards showcase the amazing vibrancy and talent in UK manufacturing and I’d like to congratulate all of this year’s winners. Manufacturing is at the heart of the UK’s economy, and these awards not only recognise outstanding achievements, but also help drive improvements in business practices of all the companies involved.”
The finalists waited eagerly to hear who had been crowned winner in their category. Rory Bremner co-compered the awards with Nick Hussey and Henry Anson, joint CEOs of The Hennik Group, publishers of The Manufacturer.
The announcements and congratulations for the winners culminated in a presentation to DURA Automotive Systems, the winner of the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year 2016.
DURA is an independent designer and manufacturer of driver control systems, seating control systems, safety hardware, structural body systems, exterior trim and integrated glass systems. The firm also picked up three other awards: People & Skills; World Class Manufacturing; and Sustainable Manufacturing.
Martin Dinsley, Plant Manager at DURA Automotive Body and Glass, said: “It is amazing to be recognised in such a spectacular way. This is for everybody’s hard work. There are many different teams that have worked really hard to make this possible.”