The King expressed his admiration for a Birmingham manufacturer at a prestigious Buckingham Palace awards dinner to celebrate the “best of British businesses.”
King Charles met winners who received The Kings Award for Enterprise, which recognises outstanding achievements by UK firms in four categories and the event was also attended by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
Birmingham-based window and door manufacturer Shelforce received the award for promoting opportunity through social mobility and Business Manager, Howard Trotter was there to represent the company, which employs 30 people, of which 75% have a disability, and was one of a handful of businesses who had a private audience with the King.
“His majesty knew all about Shelforce and our employment model and absolutely loved the whole idea and principle behind the company, one of battling to overcome adversity,” said Howard. “I also spoke to the Duke of Edinburgh and the Duke of Gloucester about what we do, and what was apparent was everyone I spoke to knew all about Shelforce, which was fantastic.
“It was a wonderful evening and everyone at the Palace, from the King down, made us feel so comfortable and like we were the most important people in the room.”
It is the awards’ 57th year but the first after the scheme was renamed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and some 148 businesses were honoured across the four categories, which also include innovation, international trade and sustainable development.
Shelforce will be able to proudly use the King’s Awards emblem for the next five years on their products and to promote their services.
