Benson Box general manager Mike Owens said that the company’s commitment to training and engaging its employees went a long way in winning the award. Of Benson Box’s 350 employees, 180 have NVQs and training is given within work hours.

Owens said: "At times when companies have tightened the purse strings with regards to training, we’ve done the opposite. We’ve been committed as a company but the employees have mirrored that in their commitment too."

He also hailed the company’s Lean Sigma strategy, first implemented three years ago, as a driver of continuous improvement across the team and its practices.

The Bardon plant was also highly commended in the Best Household and General Products and Judges Special Award categories at the ceremony hosted by Cranfield School of Management and manufacturing magazine Works Management on 28 September.

Works Management editor Max Gosney said: "Our winners showcase the UK’s under-celebrated strength in niche manufacturing sectors.

"They excel because they have clear strategies, outstanding processes, and a belief in empowering and inspiring their people to deliver."

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