From Barton Marine:

Representatives from across the marine industry gathered in early January to recognise the top achievements within the sector.

Somerset-based mooring products manufacturer, Fendequip, was awarded the David Coleman Excellence in Exporting Award for its strong development in export sales, which now amounts to 90% of its total sales. The award, which is sponsored by Barton Marine Equipment Ltd, was received by Paul Chown, Director of Fendequip.

Suzanne Blaustone of Barton Marine hands the award to Fendequip Director, Paul Chown,

The judging panel, which was made up of members of the British Marine International Committee, were impressed by the way Fendequip has worked tirelessly to establish its brand in a highly competitive overseas market by investing in boat shows and exhibitions including the Monaco Yacht Show, METSTRADE Show in Amsterdam and Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, to name but a few.

Howard Pridding, CEO of British Marine, comments, “Fendequip is not only a proud member of British Marine, frequently utilising the benefits and services on offer to them, but also a great example of an SME that has a sound vision and business plan to continue developing its sales and in particular, their export element. Congratulations to them on their success.”

Established by Paul and Lisa Chown in 2005 in the Somerset town of Wincanton, Fendequip employs 10 staff who are responsible for the manufacture and export of its products to the superyacht and leisure marine sector in 15 countries across the globe. In 2015, Fendequip moved into a brand new purpose built factory in order to satisfy the increasing demand for its products.

This was the second year the David Coleman Export Award was presented. The award is given in memory of David Coleman, a very well-known personality within the marine industry and a highly active member of British Marine. In 1986, David Coleman purchased Barton Marine and transformed the company into a global brand. He inspired and encouraged many industry leaders to join him on the British Marine Export Committee.