William King takes top prize at the Confederation of British Metalforming Awards in Birmingham
A West Bromwich metal services centre saw off 50 rivals to win the “Company of the Year” title at the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) Awards, widely seen as the Oscars of the UK metal industry.
William King, which specialises in high-tensile steel, aluminium, light gauge processing, electrical steels and niche metal coatings, scooped the top prize at a ceremony attended by more than 150 guests at the ICC in Birmingham.
Judges were impressed by the firm’s commitment to decarbonisation, including significant investment in on-site solar electricity and a drive to maximise its roofing envelope to generate renewable energy.
The same approach earned William King a second trophy on the night, winning the Energy Efficiency of the Year award.
Innovation despite economic headwinds
CBM chief executive Geraldine Bolton said: “The last 12 months have been full of challenges for our members and the metal sector in general, yet despite economic volatility, we have seen some fantastic growth stories and real tales of innovation.”
Sheffield-based Tecomet, a manufacturer of medical devices, orthopaedics and aerospace components, claimed the HSE Initiative Award for its commitment to employee wellbeing, underpinned by links to local support services and an annual Safety Day.
Sertec Group and the next generation
Automotive supplier Sertec Group was the evening’s other double winner, taking the Employee Engagement Award after delivering over 2,200 upskilling courses and raising nearly £30,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Sertec’s Jack Neal was also named Apprentice of the Year by independent judge Enginuity, recognised for his technical contributions to a gantry crane improvement project.
CBM president Steve Morley said: “Jack has already delivered massive tangible benefits to the Sertec Group. It makes you realise how important it is to fight for current metalforming manufacturers, so the apprentices of today can become the leaders of the future.”
The CBM represents more than 200 UK manufacturers employing 75,000 people. Headline sponsor was Hadley Group.
