Fort Vale Awarded with a Kings Award for International Trade 2024

Global manufacturer Fort Vale Engineering has received its fifth royal honour after being presented with a King’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth in overseas sales.

The Simonstone-based business was awarded the accolade by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, King Charles III’s representative in the county, during a ceremony attended by over 200 employees and guests at Fort Vale’s premises.

Mrs Parker praised the achievement, noting that only three Lancashire businesses received a King’s Award in 2024 and highlighting Fort Vale’s role in strengthening East Lancashire’s reputation for manufacturing excellence.

The 360-employee company, a world-leading precision manufacturer of valves and fittings for the tank container, road tanker and rail industries, has previously won four Queen’s Awards, the first dating back to 1981.

The award recognises a 59% increase in overseas sales over three years, with international markets now accounting for 97% of total sales. Fort Vale has exported British-designed and manufactured products to 69 countries during this period.

Managing Director Ian Wilson said the achievement reflected the dedication and innovation of the entire team, adding that the business continually works closely with customers to develop new solutions and add value.

The celebration included a factory tour followed by a presentation and buffet reception. Founded in 1967, Fort Vale continues to invest in skills and apprenticeships, with 34 apprentices currently in training, including several board members who began their careers as apprentices.