Crawley-based manufacturer Vent-Axia is delighted to be shortlisted in the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2014. An industry leader in low carbon ventilation, the firm is one of three worthy finalists for the Award for Innovation and Technology. The award ceremony will take place on the 20th March 2014, at the Effingham Park Hotel, Gatwick, where master of the one-line gag, comedian Tim Vine will present the awards at a sumptuous sell-out evening celebrating the best of the region’s businesses.
The Gatwick Diamond sub-region is a key economic area and home to a vast array of companies ranging from multinationals to sole traders. When considering companies to shortlist for the coveted awards, the judging panel were looking for businesses that show innovation and inspiration in their work and demonstrate a real commitment to the Gatwick Diamond area. The key to Vent-Axia’s entry was its noteworthy investment in ground-breaking new products and its clear investment in the local region.
Innovation has always been at Vent Axia’s heart. Back in 1936 the company was launched with the introduction of the world’s first electrically-operated window fan. Vent-Axia hasn’t looked back since, following on with several other pioneering inventions during its 75 year history. Over the past three years the company has shown innovation by launching 16 ranges including over 200 new products.
“We’re delighted that we’ve been shortlisted for a prestigious Gatwick Diamond Business Award. Innovation is central to Vent-Axia’s culture so it truly reflects the spirit of our company and we’re thrilled that this has been recognised by industry peers,” said Jenny Smith, Marketing Services Manager at Vent-Axia.
Located in the heart of the Gatwick Diamond sub-region in Crawley, West Sussex, Vent-Axia recently demonstrated its support to the Gatwick Diamond economy when, in January 2013, the company opened three new production assembly lines at its headquarters. It was a bold move re-shoring manufacturing from China back to Britain with the relocation creating 35 new Crawley-based jobs in a tough economic climate. Vent Axia also spent over £350k in tooling and buildings showing a clear investment in the local economy.
As well investing in the local economy Vent-Axia’s commitment to British manufacturing has seen the company further investing in UK logistics which has helped lower the embodied energy of products by reducing carbon emissions. A reduction in international shipping and flights has had a remarkable result - saving 15 Tonnes of CO² a year.
Vent-Axia continues to invest considerably in R&D which is set to triple output within the next 12 months with the forthcoming launch of 15 new product ranges. Since 2010, the company’s turnover has increased by 27%, a beacon of profitability in an atmosphere of economic gloom within the construction industry.
For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia telephone 0844 856 0590.