Semiconductor Supplier Among Welsh Firms to Shine at Manufacturing Awards

Philtronics, a Contract Electronics Manufacturer (CEM) based in Aberdare, has been named SME of the Region at Make UK’s Regional Manufacturing Awards.

The company has also received the top award in the Developing Future Talent category for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and technicians.

Since its founding in 2003, Philtronics has grown from a modest 500-square-foot startup into a 25,000-square-foot facility, employing 85 people and achieving a 50/50 male/female workforce and management team.

The company works across Wales’ semiconductor, defence and medtech sectors.

Over the past three years, Philtronics has implemented a multi-faceted talent development programme through the Philtronics Academy, digitalisation initiatives, and partnerships with Merthyr College, Coleg Y Cymoedd, and the University of South Wales.

These efforts have upskilled staff, onboarded multiple apprentices – including several award-winners – and engaged hundreds of local students in STEM and manufacturing careers, building a sustainable pipeline of future talent.

Philtronics has also strengthened its community impact, supporting thousands of young people and families through Action for Children, Ospreys in the Community, and local wellbeing initiatives.

Simon Pritchard, CEO of Philtronics, said:

“We are proud and grateful to Make UK for honouring Philtronics with two awards at the Wales Regional Dinner. This recognition celebrates our efforts in developing the next generation of technicians and engineers through our extensive outreach program, supporting our steady growth as a key supply chain partner in the Welsh semiconductor cluster and beyond. It also highlights our commitment to creating quality jobs and opportunities that make a positive impact in our local community and strengthen Wales' manufacturing legacy.”

Pontyclun-based FSG Tool & Die Ltd won the Innovation Award for creating new engineering solutions that tackle sustainability and manufacturing challenges.

Since 2022, FSG has worked on a number of exciting projects for leading international brands, including making EV battery tooling for Tesla with precision finer than a human hair, reusable polymer cup tooling for Starbucks, and recyclable PET packaging tools for Müller.

All projects were paid for by the company itself, met international quality standards, and were supported by £720,000 in R&D and £400,000 on new machinery. Which helped FSG expand into new markets, strengthen its position with customers, and develop new patents.

Other South Wales winners on the night included:

• Pontypool-based Airbond Ltd who won the Energy and Sustainability award.
• Frontier Medical Group (FMG) of Tredegar who won in the Business Growth and Strategy category.
• Sony UK Technology Centre in Pencoed who took home the Manufacturing Impact award.

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 Wales. The winners will now go on to the National Finals which will be held in London in January 2026.

Janis Richards, Region Director for Make UK in Wales, 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 Wales and as we grow our economy there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.”