A COMPANY in Huddersfield is proving hot stuff.
Fired up Corporation Ltd was named winner of the Rising Stars category in the Cathay Pacific China Business Awards 2011.
The competition is designed to acknowledge and celebrate UK business dynamism and success in China and Hong Kong.
One of three award categories, the Rising Stars Award acknowledges business dynamism and success by small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Hong Kong and China.
Fired up was recognised for its success in setting up a 300,000sq ft factory in Zhongshan, China, to complement production from its 100,000sq ft site at St Thomas’ Road, Longroyd Bridge.
The company specialises in electrical assembly, heating and cooling products with a strong focus on the home, hotel and hospitality markets.
It established the factory in China in 2006. In 2010, it established a new brand – Endeva – for the domestic China market, producing small domestic appliances such as rice cookers and induction hobs.
It now exports its products from two production centres to more than 40 countries.
Fired Up has also championed corporate social responsibility values, which it sees being adopted by the wider business community.
These include safe and secure working environments for the employees, providing a good quality of life, including free annual health checks.
The group also offers leisure facilities, encourages sport, provides an on-site canteen of a good standard and also engages the local community with English language and music studies courses.
Fired Up is now aiming to increase market share in the fireplace and the international hotel supply market – as well as growing its Endeva branded range through supermarket chains, independent retailers and by selling direct to the consumer online.
Chief executive Richard Kaye, who accepted the award at a ceremony in London, said: “After making much investment in our company both here and abroad, we’re delighted to have been awarded this prestigious accolade in recognition of our work.
“China presents us with many opportunities to further secure and grow the business and we look forward to growing our Endeva branded range through various retail channels in China over the coming year.”
