It is a proud moment for Worcestershire as two local businesses, OOSC Clothing Limited and Slicker Recycling Limited, have been selected as winners of the highly prestigious King's Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category.

Out of the 252 UK businesses, 22 belong to the West Midlands region.

Worcester and London-based company OOSC Clothing Limited has been recognised for their significant short-term growth in overseas sales over three years. Known for its retro-inspired and sustainably produced active wear brand, OOSC Clothing Limited is determined to become a leader in this field.

OOSC’s Co-Founder & Director, Nick Marsden, said, “We are absolutely thrilled to have won the Kings Award for International Trade! OOSC is now sold to over 110 different countries worldwide and it's truly awesome to get Royal approval for all our efforts in selling our sustainably made skiwear. We put so much effort into the business and to have this kind of recognition is amazing! We look forward to the Royals wearing some OOSC on the mountain soon!”

Stourport-On-Severn-based recycling plant Slicker Recycling Limited has been awarded for providing a sustainable solution on an international level for recycling waste oils. This is a massive achievement for a local business, putting them at the forefront of environmental sustainability innovation.

Laura Carter, Joint Managing Director, said, “This is without a doubt one of the proudest moments of my career. As joint managing director, I have the pleasure of seeing the difference our team makes every single day. They constantly push innovative ideas, whilst grasping and adapting to constant change in the global market – helping to make us a leader in the collection and re-refinement of used lubricating oil.”

Later in the year, the Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Mrs. Beatrice Grant, will have the honour of presenting the King's Award and Grant of Appointment to both OOSC Clothing Limited and Slicker Recycling Limited. The King’s Award scheme (previously known as the Queen’s Award) was instituted by Royal Warrant in 1965 and celebrates exceptional achievements in the realms of Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility). 

The Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Beatrice Grant, has written to congratulate both companies on receiving this prestigious award and she said, “It is wonderful to see two Worcestershire businesses receive such recognition for their growth in international trade.  Winning this Award offers businesses multiple benefits, including global recognition, a boost to staff morale and increased growth and I would encourage Worcestershire businesses to consider entering in the future.”
 
With a thriving economy and a supportive business community, Worcestershire is the ultimate destination for entrepreneurs and companies looking to succeed. To discover how you can invest and grow your Worcestershire business take a look at the business support grants offered by Worcestershire County Council.