Innovation award for Harrison Spinks

Bed-maker Harrison Spinks – which produces its own wool and flax for its nonwovens – has won the coveted Insider ‘Made in Yorkshire Award for Innovation’.

With a high volume of entries this year, the family-owned business was up against stiff competition from the cream of the local industry and ultimately claimed the award for the design and manufacture of unique pocket springs and their associated production process.

The patented innovations have given competitive advantage to the company’s bed manufacturing business and increased its international sales of springs to other manufacturers.

Pocket springs produced in a linear sheet format encased in nonwovens have allowed the density of springs per bed to be significantly higher giving superior technical performance and reduced manufacturing costs compared with traditional products. The ‘high-density’ spring technology has also being adapted to new applications such as in the automotive car seat industry.

The Insider Made in Yorkshire awards aim to celebrate and recognise local companies, organisations and individuals who work to promote business within Yorkshire, whils at the same time providing opportunities for employment and prosperity.

“This is an important accolade for the company and it is incredibly encouraging that such a reputable group of judges have identified both the quality of our products and the innovation from which we thrive on, making the company what it is today,” said managing director Simon Spinks.

The win takes Harrison Spinks through to the national final of the competition to be held in Liverpool on 21st July 2014. The event is part of the International Festival for Business 2014 which is sponsored by government and showcases UK business to new markets, products and sectors.