Welshpool-based Invertek Drives Ltd has been awarded with The King's Award for Enterprise – International Trade 2025, which recognises the company's global export growth and contribution to the economy.
The variable frequency drive (VFD) designer and manufacturer has demonstrated continued growth in overseas sales, with exports now accounting for 95 per cent of the company's overall sales.
Headquartered at Offa's Dyke Business Park in Welshpool, Invertek Drives has expanded from its Welsh roots to become a global leader in the VFD industry, with significant market presence across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and beyond.
Shaun Dean, Chairman of Invertek Drives, Executive Vice President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, and Managing Director of SHI (Europe), said:
“This King's Award demonstrates how Invertek has successfully expanded its global footprint while maintaining the technical excellence and innovation, driven locally from the UK, that have always been its hallmarks.
“The impressive international growth is a testament to the strategic alignment between Invertek's capabilities and the increasing global demand for energy-efficient solutions. As part of the Sumitomo Heavy Industries group, Invertek continues to strengthen our collective position in key markets worldwide.”
Adrian Ellam, CEO of Invertek Drives, said:
“This prestigious recognition validates our international business strategy and commitment to creating innovative, energy-efficient solutions for global markets. Our VFDs play a crucial role in helping industries worldwide reduce energy consumption, optimise processes, and minimise environmental impact – all increasingly important as businesses focus on sustainability and operational efficiency.”
Established in 1998, Invertek Drives has consistently pushed the boundaries of VFD technology, the firm said. It has developed its innovative Optidrive VFD products that control the speed and torque of electric motors, optimising energy consumption in various industrial and commercial applications.
The company has seen remarkable growth, with annual overseas sales increasing 149% over the six-year period. This achievement becomes even more significant considering the company navigated global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and supply chain disruptions, the firm said.
During these times, Invertek demonstrated commercial foresight by building a multi-million-pound stock of key components before Brexit, it said. This allowed the company to maintain production and fulfil orders when competitors struggled during the Covid pandemic, leading to significant market share gains.
The company has also made substantial investments in its Welsh operations, completing a major expansion of its production, warehouse, and distribution facility in 2024. This investment has further strengthened Invertek's position as a significant employer in the region, with staff numbers growing from 200 in 2018 to more than 400 in 2025.
The King's Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the UK. Winning businesses can use the prestigious King's Awards Emblem for the next five years.
