Building a worldwide export business spanning the globe and now totalling 63 countries has earned a coveted International Trade Award for Lancashire-based manufacturer What More UK.
Its directors and staff were this week celebrating an early Christmas present in the shape of the 2015 International Trade Award, presented to the region's Outstanding Exporter of the Year by the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce.

Accepted on behalf of the company by Julie Brannon and Michael Blakey, the award will take pride of place in reception at the company's head offices at Padiham's Shuttleworth Mead Business Park - but only after touring the firm's large manufacturing and distribution plant just up the road at Altham. From the loading bays there What More UK products are shipped around the globe to retail customers in 63 countries... and counting.

"What More was only founded in 1999 and we didn't start exporting until around 2008, so to have the international business we have today is quite a feat and a credit to everyone involved with the company," said director Tony Grimshaw.

"This award is particularly special to us because when we set out to become an exporter the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce was a great source of help and advice to us, together with the UKTI and our trade association, BHETA. Without their ongoing support we certainly wouldn't be where we are today."

Last month a short video about What More's manufacturing capabilities was chosen to help launch a new online TV channel, 'Export TV', for UK Trade and Industry (UKTI) - the Government department which advises and encourages UK exporters. What More also holds the coveted Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

Mr Grimshaw added: "It is always a thrill to be recognised as a British manufacturer exporting its goods overseas and to say we are pleased at winning the Chamber of Commerce International Trade Award is a massive understatement."

"Our thanks go not only to our own staff, but also to our suppliers and customers and, of course, to the Chamber. It's got our Christmas off to a great start."

What More UK employs around 220 people at its Padiham offices and modern 500,000sq ft manufacturing facility at Altham. It has a portfolio of more than 650 products, mostly plastic housewares, gardening and DIY products sold under the 'Wham' brand.

The company exhibits at leading trade shows in the UK and Europe and next March will make its American debut at the International Home and Housewares Show in Chicago - the world's biggest housewares-only trade show.