Virelight UK receives historic recognition with the inaugural King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

Virelight UK is proud to be among only 148 organisations across the nation to receive this prestigious award, officially announced on Friday 21 April. This year a total of 149 awards were made, with one business earning two distinctions.

Founded in 2000 and employing 65 staff, Virelight UK manufactures high-quality wiring accessories. In 2017, the company made history in its sector by becoming the first European manufacturer to achieve CQC factory accreditation, enabling direct exports from Europe to mainland China. The business also secured full CCC certification across its product range for the Chinese marketplace.

SM, Managing Director of Virelight UK, comments:
“Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a tremendous recognition of our efforts in building international trade. It is one of the highest honours available to a UK company. For East Sussex, where only two firms won a Queen’s Award last year, this marks a proud moment as we now represent the region in the very first King’s Awards for Enterprise. For an SME like ours, this accolade could help strengthen our global presence and accelerate future growth.”

Virelight UK products have been specified for major heritage projects and even Royal residences. Achieving this award now feels like the ultimate recognition of the company’s innovation and commitment to excellence.

SM also continues his appointment as an Export Champion for Southern England, a role first offered in 2020 by the Department for International Trade (DIT) and extended through 2023/24. He says:
“It is an honour to represent the South East as Export Champion. We are committed to sharing our experiences to encourage other businesses to explore export opportunities. Virelight UK’s journey shows that British manufacturers can thrive on the international stage.”

Today, Virelight UK proudly remains the only UK manufacturer licensed to export sockets and switches to China, through its main distributor Kursel Ltd and a network of sub-distributors. China now accounts for over 90% of the company’s overseas sales, making it the top-performing export destination.

Gary concludes:
“Winning the King’s Award, while continuing as an Export Champion, boosts our visibility worldwide and reinforces our mission to deliver sustainable growth in overseas markets. This recognition places us firmly at the forefront of the electrical accessories industry.”