Chesterfield Company Wins Big at Regional Manufacturing Awards

Wilson Bio-Chemical, based in Chesterfield, has struck gold at a major Midlands Manufacturing Awards ceremony

The awards, organised by Make UK, the organisation which represents manufacturing industry across the UK, were held to recognise the achievements of companies from across the Midlands. They were presented at a ceremony sponsored by Warwick Manufacturing Group with the winners going on to the National Finals which will be held in London in January 2026.

The Make UK Midlands Energy & Sustainability award was given in recognition of the companies’ extensive efforts to develop new materials which are better for the environment in the construction industry.  With construction responsible for over 10% of global CO₂ emissions, this represented a breakthrough alignment between the companies’ technology and an industry in urgent need of decarbonisation.

Wilson Bio-Chemical’s latest project focuses on converting Wilson Fibre®, produced through the company’s proprietary steam autoclaving process, into biochar. The biochar will then be embedded within green building materials, creating low-carbon construction solutions while tapping into the growing carbon offset market. By transforming a waste management process into a climate mitigation solution, Wilson Bio-Chemical is not only meeting environmental regulations but setting new benchmarks for how waste can be valorised into sustainable materials that help build the future while restoring the planet.

Tom Wilson, Chief Engineer and Inventor at Wilson Bio-Chemical, said:“Our team has always been driven by innovation and a commitment to sustainability. We’re constantly identifying new uses for our advanced fibre to help other industries achieve their net zero ambitions, capture carbon, and move towards a truly circular economy. This award recognises not just our technology, but the forward-thinking spirit of the people behind it — always looking ahead to how our materials can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

Dan Hulme, Head of Sales: Key Accounts at Inspired PLC who sponsored the Award, said:

“With their extensive supply chains, resource requirements and energy-intensive operations, the manufacturing sector stands at the epicentre in creating a more sustainable future.  Innovation, resourcefulness and dedication in this space is not only imperative, but commendable. As an ardent advocate for encouraging excellence in manufacturing, I’m honoured to continue my support for the Make UK Manufacturing Awards for a fourth consecutive year.  

Professor David Greenwood, CEO of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult at WMG, and Director for Industrial Engagement, Warwick Manufacturing Group

“WMG is proud to be hosting and sponsoring Make UK’s Manufacturing Awards for the Midlands and East. The awards bring together innovators and leaders from across the region to celebrate excellence in manufacturing. It’s fitting for WMG to host the event at the University of Warwick, reflecting our commitment to championing manufacturing and shining a spotlight on the innovation and progress driving the industry forward. These awards also come at a pivotal time, as the renewed focus on the UK’s Industrial Strategy presents significant opportunities to strengthen regional productivity, accelerate innovation, and build a globally competitive manufacturing base.”

Chris Corkan, Region Director for Make UK in the Midlands, said:

“These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing. The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in the Midlands and as we grow our economy there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.”

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About Make UK

Make UK, The Manufacturers’ Organisation, is the representative voice of UK manufacturing.

Collectively we represent 20,000 companies of all sizes, from start-ups to multinationals, across engineering, manufacturing, technology and the wider industrial sector. Everything we do – from providing essential business support and training to championing manufacturing industry in the UK and the EU – is designed to help British manufacturers compete, innovate and grow.

From HR and employment law, health and safety to environmental and productivity improvement, our advice, expertise and influence enables businesses to remain safe, compliant and future-focused.