A LEOMINSTER-based business has been recognised as the region's manufacturer of the year.

Kingspan Insulation was revealed the winner of the award, which was sponsored by Hewett Recruitment, at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce' business awards at the Bank House Hotel on Thursday July 10.

Judges were impressed by the company's considerable profitability growth despite competing in a tough construction market, which has suffered a downturn during the last few years.

They also noted Kingspan's innovation of both end user products and the manufacturing process.

John Garbutt, Kingspan's divisional marketing director, said: "We are delighted to win the manufacturer of the year award.

"It’s great to have the hard work of the team recognised, and it’s a real endorsement of the strategy we have to become a zero net energy manufacturing company whilst still developing ground-breaking new products and processes and pushing the business forward in all areas.”

Hereford-based Kinetic Six, which provides and installs secure communication system solutions and infrastructures – especially in hostile environments – claimed the award for most promising new business, sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central.

And proving that Hereford businesses have the potential to not just survive, but thrive in competitive international markets, Bromyard based Apreco Limited won the exporter of the year award, sponsored by Malvern Instruments.