Blackburn and Burnley companies strike gold at regional manufacturing awards

Two companies from Blackburn and Burnley have struck gold with multiple awards at a major regional Manufacturing Awards ceremony

The awards, organised by Make UK, the organisation which represents manufacturing industry across the UK, were held to recognise the achievements of companies from across the North West.

The winners will now go on to the National Finals which will be held in London in January 2026.

MGS Technical Plastics based in Blackburn won the Business Growth and Strategy and also Energy and Sustainability awards.

They are a recognition of the company’s significant growth in recent years, boosted by investment in new technology, apprenticeships, diversification into new markets and an innovative approach to using social media to boost enquiries and raise business.

It also has an eco-conscious approach to manufacturing, investing in a solar panel system which generates 15 per cent of annual energy needs.

Since 2020, MGS has reduced its carbon footprint by almost half and is committed to achieving Net Zero before 2050. MGS is an injection moulding, tooling and assembly specialist serving the automotive, medical, defence, consumer goods, hygiene, lighting, oil and gas, electronics, and energy sectors.

Safran Nacelles based in Burnley picked up the Manufacturing Impact and Health, Safety and Wellbeing awards.

The Manufacturing Impact award, which is given to companies in recognition of their outstanding work in the local community, was awarded for the company’s substantial work as the official partner of Burnley FC in the Community.

Through this partnership the company provides access to state-of-the-art technology, real engineering experience, and hands-on learning for thousands of pupils in the Burnley area, many of whom face significant socioeconomic challenges.

The company’s financial support has also made possible the purchase of class sets of Sphero-robot programming kits and other essential science, technology and engineering learning tools.

Safran is an aerospace components manufacturer, part of the wider Safran group which has over 100,000 employees worldwide.

Dawn Huntrod, regional director for Make UK in the North, said: “These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing.

"The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in the North West and, as we grow our economy, there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.”