A HARDWICKE-BASED manufacturing company has claimed second prize at a prestigious national awards.

Advanced Insulation became the national silver medallist for the ‘innovation’ category at the EEF Future Manufacturing Awards held in London.

In November, the company won four categories for the South West region, including health and safety, developing people, innovation and the intermediate and advanced first year apprentice.

These regional awards gave them entry to the national ceremony.

The innovation award celebrates manufacturing creativity, whether demonstrated through product development or operating practices that have driven greater productivity, efficiency, or business growth.

Andrew Bennion, managing director at Advanced Insulation, was over the moon with the company’s success.

“Innovation has been at the heart of the business since its formation in 2007, said Mr Bennion.

“To place second in a competitive field against some of the top manufacturers in the UK is a great accomplishment and helps to reaffirm our position as a company that can create innovative solutions for operations in increasingly challenging environments.”

Dick Elsy, chief executive of HVM Catapult, believed second place was extremely creditable.

“Manufacturers are always looking to the future and innovating to stay on top, so to take silver in this competitive field is a great complement to Advanced Insulation,” said Mr Elsy.

“Doing so shows that the company understands what the market needs and how to work hard to produce a product that delivers both practicality and ingenuity.

“Congratulations to all the company’s staff.”