Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is proud to announce the finalists for the prestigious Innovation, Science and Technology Award at the 2025 Business Awards. Sponsored by TMT First, this award celebrates organisations that have demonstrated outstanding use of innovation, science, or technology to significantly enhance business performance over the past three years.
The shortlisted organisations are:
Stoke-on-Trent-based Lucideon, a leading materials science consultancy, has impressed judges with a portfolio of innovations across energy, aerospace, healthcare, construction and defence. Among its standout developments is MALLET, a low-carbon solution for nuclear waste encapsulation, and work on solid-state battery technology under the Faraday Challenge. Lucideon also contributed colour calibration standards to NASA’s Perseverance rover and recently conducted a world-first hydrogen kiln trial for ceramic production, highlighting its cross-sectoral impact on sustainability and innovation.
Global construction equipment leader JCB, headquartered in Rocester, Staffordshire, celebrates its 80th anniversary with a groundbreaking achievement: the world’s first zero carbon hydrogen combustion engine. Developed through a £100 million investment and with 150 UK-based engineers, this innovation has the potential to transform the future of sustainable construction and agriculture. The engine has gained licensing approval across Europe and is currently in advanced testing in various real-world applications.
Performance Through People (PTP)
Staffordshire-based training provider PTP has earned its finalist spot through a pioneering solution to the regional welding skills shortage. By integrating virtual reality (VR) simulators with hands-on instruction, PTP offers an innovative, blended learning model that delivers a 100% pass rate. This approach exemplifies how technology and training can meet industry needs in a dynamic labour market.
Hixon-based Alpha Manufacturing, part of The HEX Group, has been recognised for embedding innovation at every level of its sheet metal fabrication business. Recent investments include smart factory technologies, Trumpf Press Brakes with automated programming, and a Creaform Metra 3D scanning system for aerospace-grade precision. These advancements underline Alpha’s commitment to next-gen manufacturing and delivering highly technical solutions to clients in nuclear, petrochemical, healthcare and more.
The winner of the Innovation, Science and Technology Award will be announced at the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Business Awards Gala Evening, held at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 10 July 2025. The event will bring together leading figures from the business community to celebrate excellence, growth, and resilience across the region.
