Bandage firm wraps up top export award

Brightwake Ltd won the export category at the Medilink East Midlands Awards, which showcases the best in local medical technology and healthcare.

Brightwake produces specialised wound dressings in Kirkby-in-Ashfield and sells them in more than 40 countries worldwide under the brand Advancis Medical.

The firm was praised for the way in which it had broken into the German and US markets, in the face of multi-national competition.

Ross Huntley, head of medical sales for Advancis, said: “Export is a fundamental part of our business, and it is with pride that we are take our British expertise and products overseas. We are delighted to win, as it will serve to support our international trade.”

The award was sponsored by the Government organisation which promotes international trade, UKTI. Regional director Ian Harrison said: “We hope the success of Advancis will help encourage other firms to consider the potential that exporting can offer.”

Brightwake, which employs around 150 people locally, has doubled turnover and the size of its workforce in the past three years. A blood recycling device is now also attracting interest from hospitals around the world.