The HEX Group wins the ‘ultimate award’, earning ‘Business of the Year’ title at the East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Awards

Held at the Pirelli Stadium, the annual awards evening brought together more than 300 guests to honour the companies and individuals driving success and making a real difference in the region. Described as ‘the ultimate award’ of the evening and sponsored by Dains Accountants & Advisers, the Business of the Year award recognises The HEX Group’s exceptional growth, outstanding performance, and continued commitment to excellence and innovation.

Family-owned for 40 years, The HEX Group is a leading engineering and manufacturing business, made up of award-winning divisions including Bri-Stor Systems, Alpha Manufacturing, Atlas Coating, HEX Graphics, HEX Living, FPR Consulting, and The HEX Group Academy.

Continued investment in state-of-the-art facilities, emerging technologies, and talent development has enabled the Group to achieve sustained growth while cementing its reputation for quality and service.

This year’s award celebrates the significant progress The HEX Group has made across its operations. In 2025, the business marked 15 years of its highly regarded apprenticeship programme, which has supported hundreds of young people into a variety of careers and strengthened the local skills pipeline. The opening of The HEX Group’s new Centre of Excellence this year further demonstrates this commitment to providing colleagues with advanced technical training, enhancing safety and developing opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

The HEX Group’s strong people-first culture was also central to the judges’ decision. The Group continues to expand its wellbeing provision, offering extensive mental health support, dedicated wellbeing rooms and a network of more than 40 trained mental health first aiders. Popular initiatives such as the Extra Mile Awards, regular colleague engagement sessions and HEXFEST, a family fun day and community celebration set to return in 2026, highlight the company’s dedication to creating an environment where colleagues feel supported, valued, and recognised.

Martin Smith, CEO of The HEX Group, shared: “Being named Business of the Year is a fantastic milestone for all of us. It reflects the determination, talent, and spirit that runs through every part of our Group. We believe in backing brilliant ideas, empowering our people, and making a positive impact on the communities around us – and this award shows what’s possible when those values guide every decision. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together, and even more excited about the future we’re shaping.”