Brompton and Bremont Watch Company share HSBC Global Connections win

Brompton and Bremont will net up to £240,000 in support for international growth after sharing the HSBC Global Connections top prize at an awards ceremony in Loch Lomond, Scotland. Manufacturing firms dominated the event, securing all ten finalist berths in a competition which attracted thousands of entries. The joint winners symbolised the very best of UK manufacturing said Steve Price, head of business banking at HSBC. "Our two winners represent the pinnacle of UK manufacturing, their innovative thinking has seen them succeed in multiple export markets, and they have a strong focus on giving back to the communities they operate in. " Brompton has built an international following for its folding bikes, which are made in Brentford. The firm has increased export sales to 80% of orders, helping fuel a 20% year on year growth since 2005. The Bremont Watch company was launched in 2002 by brothers Nick and Giles English and produces aviation inspired precision engineered mechanical watches from its Henley on Thames factory. Will Butler Adams, MD of Brompton Bicylcle, said: "I was shocked when the announcement came and felt almost embarrassed because the competition was such high quality and they're all such great businesses. It's fantastic recognition for our business and has been an amazing experience from start to finish." Giles English, Bremont co-founder, said: "We've spent a lot of time with the other finalists and they are all amazing companies so to be chosen as the winners is a huge honour. I am so proud for everyone involved in the business and it will mean a huge amount to them all. For someone outside the business to recognise that we're doing the right thing is a great boost." Other finalists included craft brewer, BrewDog; laser system manufacturer, Fianium and precision metal component manufacturer C Brandauer. All ten finalists had won regional finals of the HSBC Global Connections competition.