MIDDLEWICH company Extronics has been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2014.


The award and an engraved crystal vase was presented at the company’s office in Middlewich on Thursday, July 17, by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, and also provided an opportunity for the Extronics directors to meet Her Majesty the Queen.


Extronics is a designer and manufacturer of intrinsically safe and explosion proof equipment, speicalizing in the oil and gas sector.


The accolade, which is the highest official award for business success in the UK, was awarded in recognition of achieving substantial overseas sales growth.


John Hartley, managing director, said: “This award is a great honour for everyone associated with the company.”


"For the past six years we have focused on developing both products and sales channels that provide real advantages for our customers, particularly those in the oil and gas sector.


“The award is a tremendous achievement and one which reflects great credit on both our employees and our sales partners."


The Queen’s Award for Enterprise recognises a company's contribution to UK exports but also looks at its role within the local community.


From virtual no export sales in 2008, the company has grown along with its relocation from Congleton to Middlewich, with over 50 per cent of all sales now being generated from overseas trade in 2013.


Ross Tye, marketing manager, said: “The company has done so well to evolve from being just a reseller to now being an international manufacturer.


“I think the key to the success is the huge amount of investment made into research and development and that is a testament to the directors.”