A family owned Mid Wales company that makes precision-engineered products and systems for superyachts and luxury boats around the world has won a coveted Powys Business Award.
Makefast Group collected the International Trade Award, sponsored by Welsh Government, at the annual awards ceremony held at The Infantry Battle School, Dering Lines, Brecon at on Friday night.
The awards are organised by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group (MWMG).
Makefast Group has evolved from a small specialist in marine hardware into a globally recognised supplier of precision-engineered systems for the luxury marine market and hardware for safety industries.
Niall Hayes, Makefast’s head of operations, said:
“A lot of hard work by everyone over the last 18 months at Makefast has got us here, so it has paid off. This award portrays how well we are performing around the world and that companies in the marine industry love the products we offer.
“This achievement will promote us throughout Powys as a great place to work and through that we can then spread it further around the world. Moving forward, we want to develop further growth in the existing markets we export to, expand into new ones and keep going.”
Founded in Hampshire in 1974 by Bill and Brenda Brown, the company moved to Newtown in the 1980s when it diversified into higher-value marine systems, such as sun awnings, sunroofs, carbon fibre poles, hydraulic units and bathing platforms for superyachts and luxury boats.
Today, Makefast employs more than 85 people and exports to more than 45 countries worldwide. International sales account for around 67% of its business, driving consistent annual growth. Its products feature on vessels from most leading boat builders.
A pivotal step in Makefast’s international growth came in 2015 when it launched an Italian subsidiary. By embedding itself in one of the world’s largest boat-building markets, Makefast strengthened relationships with premium Italian manufacturers and significantly boosted European revenue.
Building on this success, Makefast USA LLC was launched in Maryland in 2022, boosting export revenue by $5 million.
Demand for bespoke solutions saw Makefast establish Custom Marine Developments Ltd, based in Abermule, which specialises in one-off designs, engineering and manufacturing for the superyacht market.
The international expansion has been supported by Welsh Government initiatives and continuous investment in research and development could now see the company branch out into the defence hardware market.
Niall added:
“This expansion exemplifies Makefast’s strategy of combining British engineering quality with localised market expertise. Our story highlights how innovation, strategic localisation and quality can drive sustained export success in competitive global industries.
“Through targeted subsidiaries in Italy and the USA and specialist capabilities via CMD, Makefast has transformed from a regional player into a dynamic international force.
“With strong footholds in Europe and North America, plus distributors serving Brazil and Asia, Makefast is well-positioned for further growth.”
The judges said:
“The flexibility and agility of this family business reflect the dedication, experience and expertise of its team. Its commitment to manufacturing reliable, high-quality products is clear throughout the organisation, while its adaptable approach demonstrates a strong understanding of customers and the wider market.”
The runners up were Charcroft Electronics Limited, Llanwrtyd Wells, Airflo Fishing Products Ltd, Brecon and Dulas, Machynlleth.
