Invertek Drives Ltd, a global leader in variable frequency drive (VFD) technology, has been awarded with The King's Award for Enterprise - International Trade 2025, recognising continuous growth in overseas sales.

The UK-based designer and manufacturer, part of Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd, has demonstrated remarkable international growth. Exports now represent 95 per cent of total sales, reinforcing its position as a leading innovator in energy efficient motor control solutions. The company has doubled in size to 420 employees since 2018 at its headquarters in Welshpool, Powys.

The award acknowledges Invertek's impressive 149% growth over a six year period - achieved despite global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and electronics supply chain disruptions.

Shaun Dean, Chairman of Invertek Drives, Executive Vice President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, and Managing Director of SHI (Europe), added: "This King's Award demonstrates how Invertek has successfully expanded its global footprint while maintaining the technical excellence and innovation 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, since its acquisition in 2019. The ability to utilise UK based talent on a global platform is a key driver of our success."

Testament to Invertek's Capabilities and Global Demand 

Adrian Ellam, CEO of Invertek Drives, headquartered at Welshpool, Powys, 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."

Multi-faceted International Trade Strategy 

Invertek has developed a multifaceted international trade strategy combining a global network of sales partners with strategic wholly-owned subsidiaries in key markets including the USA, Spain, Germany, and Poland. This approach has enabled the company to effectively penetrate diverse markets and establish strong footholds in various regions.

Demonstrating operational resilience, Invertek strategically stocked critical components before Brexit and the pandemic, enabling uninterrupted manufacturing capabilities when competitors faced production challenges due to supplier issues. This foresight allowed the company to fulfil record global orders and strengthen its international market presence even during industry-wide delays.

The company has reinforced its commitment to long-term growth with a major expansion of its UK production, warehouse, and distribution facility, completed in 2024. This investment has increased capacity to meet growing international demand for its Optidrive range of VFDs, which are renowned for their versatility across manufacturing, HVAC, water treatment, and renewable energy applications.

"Our success in international markets stems from our customer-centric, partnership driven approach," added Adrian. "By prioritising adaptability, innovation, sustainability, and digital engagement, we've been able to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace while delivering exceptional value to customers worldwide."

The King's Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the UK, with winning businesses able to use the esteemed King's Awards Emblem for the next five years.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Owain Betts, PR and Communications Manager  
Invertek Drives Ltd  
Phone: +44 (0)1938 558 253  
Mobile: +44 (0)7483 072 739  
Email: Owain.Betts@shi-g.com  
Website: www.invertekdrives.com