Kent Brushes Wins Prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise

Kent Brushes, Britain's oldest established brush company has received the Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2017, the UK’s highest accolade for 'outstanding achievement' and international business success.

Following the Prime Minister’s recommendation for the iconic British brand to be presented with this award, Her Majesty the Queen approved the honour in recognition of how the progressive company has produced a host of innovative designs, successfully targeted multiple international markets, plus added value in terms of function, aesthetics and durability.

Kent Brushes, which was founded in 1777 and is the only brush manufacturer to have held the prestigious Royal Warrant consistently for nine reigns, produces over 250 different brushes with ranges for hair, body, clothes, make-up, teeth, shaving and male grooming. The multi award-winning brand currently trades in 64 countries and their export business, which spans Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, has trebled in the last three years.

The company is no stranger to being recognised for their export achievements. After being ranked 93 in the 2016 SME Export Fast Track 100 earlier this year, the brand climbed five places to reach number 88 in the 2017 SME Export Fast Track 100.

Winning this latest award brings a host of opportunities. As well as being able to inscribe the Queen's Award Emblem on their packaging, stationery, website and marketing materials for five years, plus fly the Queen's Award flag at their office, this esteemed accolade means the company can also look forward to two exciting ceremonies this year. Firstly, the Lord-Lieutenant of the County, The Queen’s local representative will visit Kent Brushes' premises in Hemel Hempstead to personally present a commemorative crystal bowl and Grant of Appointment. Secondly, two representatives from the company will also attend a Royal reception, hosted by Her Majesty The Queen.

Alan Cosby, Chairman and Managing Director of Kent Brushes, who has headed up the family-run company for over half a century commented,

We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award, particularly as 2017 marks Kent Brushes' 240th anniversary. This accolade is a reflection of innovative new product development, excellent servicing and a dedication to quality standards, which is enthusiastically embraced in our family-orientated business. It is our principle that we do not just simply supply well designed, quality, well-functioning haircare products, we also provide excellent consumer satisfaction. For this to be recognised by Her Majesty The Queen makes our entire team feel truly proud.