Bilston-based manufacturer
Bowers & Jones has added to its growing list of accolades after securing a national honour at the
Make UK National Manufacturing Awards. The company, which specialises in roll tooling equipment for the metal forming industry, was named winner of the ‘Business Growth & Strategy’ category at a ceremony held at London’s Madame Tussauds on 29 January.
The latest success marks Bowers & Jones' fourth major award in the past year. The company has earned the national title after first securing the regional Make UK award in November, adding to last year’s prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in the export category.
In their citation, the judges said: “This company has demonstrated a clear, quantifiable strategy, fully embraced by the organisation. The judges were impressed by the leadership team’s passion and agility which has resulted in impressive financial results and customer diversification while maintaining a focus on its people and wellbeing — it is a worthy winner of this award.”
The Business Growth & Strategy category recognises manufacturers that have demonstrated exceptional expansion, strong strategic planning and the ability to navigate challenges in demanding markets. Since the 2020 acquisition by directors Jane Somerville and Nicola Owen, Bowers & Jones has more than doubled its turnover, expanded its workforce and significantly increased its global customer base. Export sales now account for the majority of the company’s business.
Under the leadership of Jane Somerville, Nicola Owen and operations director James Owen, the company has successfully steered its way through global tariffs, the effects of the Covid‑19 pandemic and a major relocation to its current facility on Vulcan Road, Bilston. The team has also driven growth through diversification into new markets and applications.
Jane Somerville said: “We are thrilled to win this award from Make UK, which showcases to a national audience the dedication and expertise of our talented workforce, who have driven our remarkable expansion trajectory. Advancing from a regional victory to claiming the national prize is an incredible milestone for Bowers & Jones as a Black Country-based business. This win further proves that through effective planning, skilled personnel, and unwavering determination, companies can flourish even during turbulent periods.”