A STEETON company has secured a hat-trick of top regional honours.

Acorn Stairlifts took the accolades in the prestigious Engineering Employers Federation Future Manufacturing Awards.

The firm, which employs over 1,400 people worldwide, won the business growth and outstanding export crowns and was named runner-up in the smart product category.

It was chosen by a panel of judges including business leaders, industry experts and academics.

The company now goes forward to national finals, with winners being announced at a gala dinner in London next month.

Dave Belmont, Acorn's company secretary, said: "Our success in winning these awards is down to our team's hard work and dedication.

"We are delighted to have been recognised in this way.

"Not only does it demonstrate the valuable contribution made by local manufacturers like ourselves, but it also puts us on the map as a modern and innovative company.

"This is great news for us to share with all our staff, customers and suppliers.

"It's fantastic to get this far and now we're all looking forward to the national finals to see how we measure up against other leading manufacturers from across the UK."

The business growth award, sponsored by DHL Global Forwarding, celebrates the achievements of manufacturers that have achieved "dynamic" growth.

Acorn's turnover in North America has trebled from £19.5m to £58.6m in the past four years.

And during that time the firm's worldwide exports have more than doubled, from £35.7m to almost £80m.

The outstanding export accolade was in recognition of its achievements exporting into more than 80 countries.

Acorn has established subsidiaries in the USA, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

The smart product silver award was for the so-called FastTrack system, which allows for speedy installation of a stairlift on a non-standard curved staircase.

Paul Cunningham, of DHL Global Forwarding, paid tribute to Acorn.

"The quest for business growth is key to the economic success of local communities and the UK as a whole – and manufacturers are leading the way," he said.

"These awards are justly deserved and Acorn Stairlifts should be applauded for its efforts.

"We wish the company the best of luck for the national finals."