The King’s Enterprise Awards recognises outstanding achievements by businesses across various sectors. These awards, continuing the legacy of the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, celebrate exceptional contributions to innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility. They serve as a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and impact of UK enterprises on both a national and global scale.

First introduced in 1966 by Queen Elizabeth II. The awards have evolved to reflect the changing landscape of business and the growing importance of sustainability and social responsibility.

The King’s Enterprise Awards are divided into four primary categories:

Innovation:
This category honours businesses that demonstrate exceptional innovation, whether through new products, services, or processes. Winners in this category showcase a commitment to creativity and a drive to push the boundaries of their industries.

International Trade:
Recognising companies that excel in international markets, this award highlights businesses that have successfully expanded their operations and achieved substantial growth in overseas trade. It underscores the importance of global commerce to the UK economy.

Sustainable Development:
Sustainability is at the forefront of modern business practices, and this award celebrates enterprises that make significant contributions to sustainable development. This includes efforts in reducing environmental impact, promoting renewable energy, and facilitating sustainable business practices.

Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility:
This category acknowledges businesses that actively promote social mobility by creating opportunities for underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the workplace and beyond.

Let’s take a look at our local winners.

Dura Composites Ltd, Clacton on Sea
Awarded King’s Award for Innovation

Introducing our new end-of-life recycling program: transforming your Dura Composites seamlessly blend design, technology, and manufacturing advancements to offer a unique array of solutions, turning unwanted GRP into innovative new products. It’s recyclable d² product line includes walkway grating, trench covers, structural profiles, handrailing, access structures, and station platforms.

One of just 252 organisations nationally to be recognised with this award, Dura Composites were awarded the King’s Award for its sustainability credentials and patented GRP walkway grating products.

There are proud to be the only company offering product repurposing at the end of its lifecycle.

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Skysmart MRO Ltd, Great Dunmow
Awarded King’s Award for International trade

A leading provider of complex avionic and mechanical component repair, maintenance, and inventory support, Skysmart prides itself in upholding air transport safety standards by consistently pursuing technical excellence and adhering to stringent maintenance practices. Its holistic approach leads to safer, faster, and more cost-effective component repair and inventory services, enhancing the reliability and availability of products.

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Airline Component Services Ltd, Braintree
Awarded King’s Award for International trade

Specialists in supplying rotable flight controls and structural components to global airlines, lessors, MROs, and stockists. ACS maintains an extensive and diverse inventory of structural components for Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

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Direct Meats (Knights Farm) Ltd, Colchester
Awarded King’s Award for International trade

Operating in over 17 countries globally, Direct Meats are a specialist meat provider, who provide a range of good quality meat products straight to your table.
With a sophisticated delivery network, a large fleet of vehicles, and a team of passionate professionals, they are committed to ensuring the best quality products and customer service whilst also taking care of the environment.
This prestigious recognition highlights its commitment to excellence and innovation in connecting people worldwide with top-quality products.

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Climbing Trees Online Marketing Limited, Colchester
Awarded King’s Award for Sustainable development

Climbing Trees is a performance ad and SEO agency dedicated to helping businesses grow without compromising ethics or the environment.

A B Corp, this ethical agency that assists businesses to increase their revenue whilst also demonstrating that digital marketing can positively impact both client results and the planet.

Sustainability is at the core of Climbing Trees. The agency prioritises environmental and social responsibility in all its endeavours, this award underscores the agency’s ongoing commitment to integrating sustainable practices into everyday operations.

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Thinking of entering the King’s Award for Enterprise 2025?

Applications for this year’s awards are now open, and we encourage and support businesses from across our region to apply.

For helpful tips and advice on constructing an application, watch this helpful webinar from Essex County Council.

To explore your eligibility and start your application via GOV.UK