"We are thrilled to win the International Trade Award and believe it shows that the commitment of the workforce and investing in environment, health and safety brings its rewards when trying to grow the business internationally."

Larry McGhee, European Sales Manager

Ames Goldsmith UK Ltd, a global supplier of chemicals to the catalyst, electronics, mirror, battery, photographic and water treatment industries, has collected the International trade award at the North West Chemicals Awards.

The event showcased the North West's "world-class" chemical companies at a black-tie dinner at the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester.

In total, nine companies received prizes in front of an audience of around 250 people.

This year's award follows on from Ames Goldsmith being awarded the Chemicals NorthWest Manufacturing company of the year and being nominated for the Chemical Industry Association Manufacturing excellence award in 2012. The award was collected by Rob Garrett (UK Plant Manager) and Larry McGhee (European Sales Manager).

Larry McGhee said: "We are thrilled to win the International Trade Award and believe it shows that the commitment of the workforce and investing in environment, health and safety brings its rewards when trying to grow the business internationally."

Randy Klein, Sales and Marketing Director, Ames Goldsmith Corporation, said: "Worldwide sales are key to the future of Ames Goldsmith globally. It is very encouraging that our UK operation is trading successfully in countries outside the UK and managing to make the difficulties that can arise from this, such as language and currency barriers, an advantage for our sales. This award is a deserved reward for the teams work."

The judges agreed that the Ames Goldsmith approach to exporting fitted the profile of newer, smaller UK businesses that seek to go into exporting and can show clear signs of growth.

Ames Goldsmith UK has seen value added turnover increase by 35% in the last year (42% over 2 years). During that time they have seen export sales increase from 46% of turnover to 62% of turnover. This means actual export sales have increased by 90% in terms of value in two years. Ames Goldsmith has managed this by continuing to partner with customers - Ames Goldsmith prefers to offer a full service to customers - not just provide a chemical product. Ames Goldsmith has also brought in new products for the catalyst market and increased market share in mirror and electrical markets.

Ames Goldsmith was also shortlisted for the Manufacturing Company of the year and Manufacturing excellence awards at the 2013 awards and has been short listed for the Insider Export awards 2013.

Chemicals Northwest is a cluster organization which supports the region's chemical industry and has 150 members. It operates on a not-for-profit basis and is funded by member subscriptions and support from its owner, the Chemical Industries Association.