Bowers & Jones managing director Jane Sommerville with Make UK regional director for Midlands & East of England memberships Chris CorkanBilston-based roll-tooling manufacturer
Bowers & Jones has secured its third business accolade of the year after being named ‘Business Growth & Strategy’ winner for the Midlands and East region at the
Make UK Manufacturing Awards 2025. The trophy was presented at Make UK’s regional event on 4 November held at The Slate, University of Warwick.
The recognition highlights the company’s strategic expansion into export markets and its clear business vision since being acquired by Jane Sommerville and Nicola Owen in 2020. The regional win now places Bowers & Jones in contention for the national title, which will be announced in January 2026.
Make UK judges praised the company’s transformation and resilience. They said: “This company has shown remarkable resilience, transforming challenges into growth. Through swift strategic changes, it exceeded targets and built an award-winning business with global ambitions. Its success in identifying export markets, strong future plans, and people-first approach impressed judges —d making it a standout winner with a clear path to continued growth."
Managing director Jane Sommerville said: “We are delighted to receive this recognition from Make UK. This award reflects the hard work and commitment of our entire team, who have been instrumental in our growth journey. Winning at regional level and progressing to the national finals is a proud moment for us as a Black Country manufacturer. It demonstrates that with the right strategy, team, and dedication, businesses can thrive even in challenging times.”
The award celebrates manufacturers who have demonstrated exceptional growth, strategic clarity, and the ability to overcome business challenges. Since 2020, Bowers & Jones has more than doubled its turnover, expanded its workforce, and grown its international customer base to over 300 customers worldwide. Today, 80% of its sales come from export markets.
This latest accolade follows two earlier wins in 2025: ‘Small Business of the Year’ at the ‘Express & Star Business Awards and Export Business of the Year’ at
Insider Media’s ‘Made in the Midlands Awards’. The company also received the prestigious ‘King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade’ earlier this year, recognising its outstanding export performance and contribution to global trade. Later this month, Bowers & Jones will attend the ‘Black Country Chamber of Commerce Business Awards’, where it is a finalist for the ‘International Trade Award’.
Founded in 1955, Bowers & Jones specialises in the design, manufacture, and refurbishment of roll tooling and rolling mill products. Under the leadership of Jane Sommerville, Nicola Owen, and operations director James Owen, the company has successfully navigated the Covid-19 pandemic and a relocation to its current site on Vulcan Road, Bilston. It continues to expand into new markets and applications, reinforcing its position as a leading name in British manufacturing.