A NORTH Essex company has been named among the winners at the EEF South East Future Manufacturing Awards.

Pacepacker Services, based at Great Bardfield, near Braintree, received the Outstanding Export Award at the event, organised manufacturers’ organisation EEF and held at Mercedes Benz World in Surrey.

The company, which makes packing, pick-and-place and robot palletising equipment for use by manufacturers the in food and bulk solids industries, was recgonised by the judges for its ambition, risk taking and overall level of success.

Lewis Scott, regional director for UK Trade and Investment, which sponsored the award, said: “There are great opportunities abroad for engineering companies and this well-deserved award shows what the benefits for companies can be.

“I very much hope other firms in the region follow Pacepacker Services Ltd’s example and move into foreign markets.”

Jim Davison, regional director for EEF, adde: “Companies like Pacepacker Services are leading the way by taking an ambitious route, taking risks and by careful strategic planning, setting itself up as a fine example of how to do business abroad.”

Pacepacker was also runner-up for the Innovative Operating Practices Award for initiatives including a “try before you buy” programme for potential customers.