Jean Hutfield – Chair of NAEP presented the award to Mackworth’s Business Managers Harry Groves & Will Barnes
Mackworth Healthcare – a rapidly growing Bridgend based business – has picked up the highly coveted “Innovative Product of the Year Award” for their MACKWORTH 180™ mobile hoist at the National Association of Equipment Providers annual conference and exhibition.
The award recognises products that have been specifically designed to provide an innovative solution to a specific need in the Healthcare Industry. Having fully researched the market, the product was designed and manufactured in Wales, backed by Welsh Government funding.
Managing Director Neil Smith said: “This recognition was highly unexpected as patient hoists have seemingly become so generic over the years and particularly against such strong, high profile competition. However, as the product offers safe lifting directly from the floor and up to 180cm clearance for even the tallest of patients, I can see its attraction to healthcare providers”.
He continued: “As the award was voted for mainly by the delegates who manage the equipment services, where this product is used daily, then for Mackworth, this makes the acknowledgement that little bit more special.
“I’d like to thank our customers, the organisers of NAEP and the Welsh Government for the incredible support that they have provided to Mackworth since my arrival. As a result of their involvement and that of Bridgend Council, alongside our own team’s magnificent efforts in research and development, then this award is true recognition of how companies can achieve good things when working together with those offering the right kind of help to SME’s”.
Economy Minister Edwina Hart congratulated Mackworth Healthcare on winning the award and said: “This is excellent news for the company and illustrates the importance of investing in research and development to bring new innovative products to the market. In this particular instance it will not only help boost business but also deliver benefits to patients and those working in healthcare.”
Earlier this year the company moved to larger purpose designed premises on Brynmenyn Industrial Estate which was supported by the Welsh Government with £114,000 business finance. It will provide room for growth over the next ten years.
Mackworth, which serves the UK and international markets, has seen turnover increase by more than 550% since its acquisition eighteen months ago when staff numbers have increased from seven to 31.
The National Association of Equipment Providers annual conference and exhibition (N.A.E.P 2014). took place at The Chesford Grange Hotel in Kenilworth.
