Sheffield based forging company honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise

Sheffield based Forge and Metals Distributor, Special Quality Alloys Ltd is celebrating the announcement that they will be honoured with the coveted Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade, the UK’s highest accolade in recognising business excellence.

Specifically, this Award for International Trade recognises a 3-year period of continuous growth for the company in its non-UK business. Successfully supplying 29 countries around the world, overseas sales grew by 87% which accounted for 44% of the company’s total activity. 

Special Quality Alloys, part of the Special Steel Group of companies, is a family-owned business established in 1986. A leading supplier of forgings, bar and machined components in nickel alloys, stainless, duplex, low alloy and carbon to demanding industries such as oil & gas, power generation and the emerging renewables markets. 

With on-site capabilities including six open-die forging hammers and two ring rollers, they manufacture forged/rolled rings, blanks, shafts and boss-shaped forgings. Group capabilities include heat treatment, testing and machining all within close proximity. 

SQA Managing Director, Benn Beardshaw said, “This is a fantastic achievement for the business to win this award and, one that I am very proud to receive. It is truly a recognition of the hard work of all our employees and their commitment to quality and service. I’m sure this will be a steppingstone to future success for the business across both the domestic and international markets.” 

Shane Higgins, Field Sales said “We have a proud history of supplying forgings and bar stock to the valve industry and to be recognised for this prestigious Queen’s Award is a testament to the hard work and expertise of our team. Following the recent major investments, including a new ring roller and our biggest forging hammer, we are excited for the future and to continue supporting the BVAA members here in the UK!” 

This year, 226 Queen’s Awards have been announced nationally for outstanding business achievement in the fields of International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity (through Social Mobility). 

Now in its 56th year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the country, with winning businesses able to use the esteemed Queen’s Awards Emblem for the next five years. 

Winners of The Queen’s Awards are invited to attend a Reception at Buckingham Palace later this year hosted by HRH The Prince of Wales.

Published: 30th May 2022