Crawley-based manufacturer Vent-Axia is delighted to be shortlisted in the Sussex Business Awards. A leader in low carbon ventilation, the firm is a finalist in the Innovation in Business category. The ceremony will take place on Thursday 5 December 2013 at the Brighton Dome where 500 of the UK’s top businesses, including Vent-Axia, will be represented. Rachel Riley of Strictly Come Dancing, Countdown and The Gadget Show will present the awards.
This year the Sussex Business Awards is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Competition was particularly tough this year with the judging panel expressing how strong and plentiful the number of entries was. When considering companies to shortlist for the Innovation in Business category the judging panel looked for: significant recent innovations; how the business diversifies itself from competitors and breaks into unforeseen new markets; the focus on creativity and new ideas; the resulting measurable returns and the business strategy for maintaining dynamism.
Vent-Axia scored highly on these judging criteria. The key to Vent-Axia’s entry was its commitment to technological innovation and noteworthy investment in new products. Founded back in 1936 the company was launched with the introduction of the world’s first electrically-operated window fan. This innovation has continued for over 75 years. During the last three years Vent-Axia has shown its commitment to research and development launching 16 products ranges which include over 200 new products.
“We’re delighted that we’ve been shortlisted for this prestigious award. Innovation, research and development are central to Vent-Axia’s culture and philosophy 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 Fleming Way, Crawley, West Sussex Vent-Axia, has 225 staff located at its head which is the location of the majority of the company’s production lines. In January 2013 the company opened three new production assembly lines at its headquarters. This investment in the local economy and community created 20 new site jobs in a tough economic climate with the firm investing over £350k in tooling for the new production lines as well as financing building works to incorporate the increased manufacturing.
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.