Four standout Somerset businesses have been honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise (KAE), spotlighting their exceptional achievements in innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and social mobility. The distinguished winners—Shearwell Data, Wittenstein High Integrity Systems Ltd, Viper Innovations Ltd, and John Packer Ltd—are setting new standards both nationally and globally.
In Somerset, the awards are managed by the Somerset Lieutenancy, representing the Royal Family in the region. Lord-Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq praised the winners, saying, “These companies are leading the way not just in the UK, but on the global stage. Their achievements highlight Somerset’s potential as a hub of innovation. With a growing number of tech firms succeeding here, Silicon Somerset is becoming a reality.”
Shearwell Data, headquartered in Wheddon Cross, is a trailblazer in livestock identification and management technology. Since its founding in 1992 within Exmoor National Park, this family-run business has revolutionised farming with innovative tracking systems that boost efficiency, improve animal health, and simplify farm operations worldwide. Their products, developed and manufactured in the UK and tested on their own farms, have driven a remarkable 69% increase in overseas sales to nearly £7 million over three years, now reaching 35 countries and supporting over 150 employees globally.
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Founder and Managing Director Richard Webber reflected on the award: “Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade is a tremendous honour. It recognises the dedication of our team and the trust of our international farming customers. From humble beginnings, our vision has grown into a global business focused on quality, customer service, and personal support—values we will always uphold.”
Wittenstein High Integrity Systems Ltd, located in Long Ashton, specialises in safety-critical embedded systems used in aerospace, defence, and medical industries. Known for reliability and safety, their products contribute to global security and technological advancements.
Viper Innovations Ltd of Portishead excels in electrical integrity solutions tailored for subsea and railway sectors. Their cutting-edge sustainable technologies enhance system dependability under extreme conditions, earning international acclaim.
John Packer Ltd in Wellington has secured its reputation as a leading manufacturer and distributor of musical instruments, supplying schools, musicians, and orchestras worldwide. The company’s dedication to craftsmanship and customer service has distinguished it in the global market.
All winners will participate in a Royal reception and will proudly display the King’s Award flag at their premises, along with rights to use the award logo in marketing for five years. Past recipients, such as Yeovil-based Atlantas Marine, have reported significant boosts in visibility and business growth following the award.
With seven of the last ten King’s Award recipients from Somerset being technology-focused, the county is emerging as a vibrant centre for high-tech innovation. Lord-Lieutenant Saddiq added, “From embedded software to livestock management, Somerset proves that innovation transcends geography. Continued investment in education, infrastructure, and business support will ensure Silicon Somerset’s bright future.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, renamed in 2023 to honour His Majesty The King, continue the legacy of celebrating outstanding UK businesses. Now in its 59th year, the award remains the pinnacle of business excellence in the country, offering grantees a prestigious emblem to enhance their brand.