Flambeau Europe, which has a manufacturing site in Ramsgate, has won the Best Leadership Award in the Manufacturing category at the National Business Awards UK.
The award recognises the leadership, resilience and determination shown across the business over the past 12 months, a period that was both challenging and rewarding for the team.
Staff at the Ramsgate site in Manston Road had to cope with two major incidents last year, a targeted break-in and copper theft last July, followed by a fire at the site in November.
Both incidents had the potential to cause serious long-term disruption to the business and local jobs. However, thanks to the leadership of Managing Director, John Wingfield, the strength of the Senior Leadership Team, and the commitment of employees, Flambeau Europe recovered at remarkable speed, returning to full operation within one week after the theft, and within just 18 hours after the fire.
Despite the challenges the firm retained all key customer accounts, continued working closely with major customers on live development projects, and remained on its growth strategy.
Mr Wingfield said: “ This award means a great deal to everyone at Flambeau Europe. The last 12 months have tested us to the extreme. We were forced to navigate both a break in and a fire at our Ramsgate site, either of which could have stopped our business in its tracks.
“Still, throughout it all, our people have shown real tenacity and professionalism by navigating the challenges together.
“I’m incredibly proud of how the team responded, and this recognition is a reflection of their hard work and commitment. It feels especially meaningful to be able to share this positive news after such a challenging year.”
Chris Taylor, Marketing Manager, added: “This award is a reflection of the resilience, hard work and togetherness of the entire Flambeau Europe team. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve come through and what the team has achieved together.”
Flambeau Europe was also selected as a finalist in the Investment in Manufacturing category.
Last year, Flambeau Europe invested in three additional injection moulding machines at the Ramsgate facility, a 60-ton Haitian machine in April, a 550-ton Bole machine in September, and a 35-ton machine in November. This expanded the fleet to 18 machines ranging from 35T to 1700T, strengthening capability across both smaller precision parts and larger, more complex mouldings.
The firm says the investments helped improve flexibility, productivity, efficiency and customer service, while also supporting longer-term growth ambitions as a UK manufacturer.
Well done Flambeau.
i thought it was closing down to be covered in houses ? , like the rest of that area
That’s correct, we have a long-term plan in place to move away from our current facility that’s over 60 years old, to a newer, more suitable location in the local area! The factory was originally built as a factory for VW, and as you can imagine, after over half a century, it’s time for an upgrade!
Way to go flambeau