North East Business Awards’ judges chose Made For Trade (MFT) as the winner of the overall Manufacturing Award at the 2022 grand final on 29 September. The win reflects the company’s growth, investment and manufacturing capabilities over the last 12 months, according to MFT’s representatives.
When deciding which of the manufacturing organisations in the region were to take home the prize, judges looked at capacity, output and also how businesses serve the region, we were told. Factors such as MFT’s investment in equipment and people were considered, as well as sales performance and future strategy, its representatives said.
One factor that helped MFT stand out, according to leaders of the business, was that MFT is both a design and fabrication outfit in one organisation. MFT encompasses the full timeline, from initial design through to in-house delivery, which benefits efficiency, improves quality and reduces cost, business leaders have said.
The last two years have been unlike any other for UK businesses. MFT’s strategy for dealing with market volatility also impressed the panel, according to business leaders. MFT overcame supply chain challenges and industry issues to sell 32,000 units in 2021.
The business is set to grow to a £45-50m turnover through commercial focus and vertical integration, its leaders say. In excess of £1m is being invested in bespoke machinery for the production line. In the office, the company’s Kwikquote software is being further developed to streamline customer experience.
Earlier this year MFT achieved ISO9001:2015 certification. This standard for quality, which they say is rare in fenestration environments, puts every step of the manufacturing process under the spotlight, from initial contact right through to delivery. MFT also rebranded in May.
