Suffolk-based solutions provider ‘Family Business of the Year’ award
Suffolk-based solutions provider ‘Family Business of the Year’ award

MEL Aviation, the Sudbury-based total engineering solution provider to the aerospace, defence and industrial sectors, achieved success in the East Anglian Daily Times Business Awards ceremony held at Trinity Park, Ipswich (on 9th July).

MEL Aviation took home the Family Business of the Year award, sponsored by Birketts, and was runner-up for the prestigious Business of the Year award.

The winner was announced at a glittering gala dinner by Terry Baxter, alongside a short video showcasing MEL Aviation. The award was proudly accepted by Nick Smith, Chairman and Gary Harvey, Group Managing Director.

The judges were looking for a company who best demonstrated plans for succession, family values, employee development and innovation strategies. The judges said:

MEL is an interesting and dynamic Suffolk success story, with two families working together following the tragic death of the company’s founder in 1977.

‘Now a third generation business manufacturing a diverse range of products for both civil and military aviation, MEL prides itself on family values and these are evident in training and performance which in turn feed through into dedication for customer service.’
 

On winning the award, Gary Harvey, Group MD said:
 

This is a huge honour for MEL Aviation.  We accept the award with pride and know that the founder of the business would have been humbled by the accolade. We have driven the business hard to get it where it is today with the help of family members, loyal and hardworking employees and the sheer determination to succeed on his behalf – and we will always continue to do so.

‘As we expand into new and exciting markets with enthusiasm, we never forget our roots.’

The EADT Business Awards, being staged for the 18th time this year, with the ceremony being hosted by Terry Baxter. Welcoming guests at the start of the evening, EADT Editor Terry Hunt said:

I’m thrilled to say that we are here celebrating record-breaking business awards, because this year we have received our highest-ever number entries, passing the 350 mark.

The evening was a huge success and MEL Aviation is extremely honoured to have been a part of it.

MEL Aviation Ltd, head of The MEL Group, provides a total engineering solution to the aerospace, defence and industrial sectors in the UK and worldwide. Their capabilities range from design, manufacture of ground support equipment and airborne components to the repair and overhaul of civil and military aerospace and defence products