When the 2003 awards were announced yesterday, the glass manufacturer was commended in the sustainable development category for collecting and reprocessing glass containers and educating people about recycling.
Praised
Judges praised the breadth of the company's approach, “from educating the public to ensure that more recycled glass is available for reprocessing, to collection, treatment and finally recycling into new bottles and jars at Rockware itself.”
Rockware logistics director Malcolm Vernon said the award marked a proud moment in the company's 85 year history. “It provides us with a moment to reflect on our achievements and to acknowledge the contribution of all our staff towards this success,” he said.
The Queen's Award was formally conferred by the Queen following a recommendation by the Prime Minster. This year there were 123 awards: 10 for sustainable development, 62 for international trade and 51 for innovation.
Model
Minister for employment relations, industry and the regions Alan Johnson said: “To win a Queen's Award for Enterprise is a significant business achievement. Successful companies have proved they are leaders in their field and among the most innovative and enterprising businesses in the country. As such, they represent powerful role models to aspiring firms throughout Britain and the world.”
Rockware makes about 2.4 billion glass bottles and jars at four sites across the UK each year and employs 1,100 people. Last year, the company spent 1.5 million on a colour-enhancement facility at Knottingley in West Yorkshire. It also runs an educational programme, 'Glassforever', aimed at 7-11 year olds.
National Business Awards
The Environment Agency has invited entries for the Environmental Awareness Award at the forthcoming Orange-sponsored National Business Awards.
The Agency is supporting the award for the second year running. Chairman Sir John Harman commented: “The National Business Awards is the only programme of its kind to engage FTSE 100 and blue chip companies together with SMEs and brand new ventures, regardless of size or sector.
“The Agency's Environmental Awareness Award is a category that reflects excellence, innovation and ethics within the environmental arena.”
The Environmental Awareness Award was won last year by Scottish Power Plc. It is one of 24 National Business Awards that will be presented at a gala dinner on November 11, 2003 at London's Le Meridien Grosvenor House.
To apply for the Environmental Awareness Award, e-mail nba@quest-media.com or phone 020 7378 1188. The closing date for entry forms is July 28, 2003.
Subscribe for free