THE ‘exceptional’ work of the team at a manufacturing plant has been praised – as the company scoops an award for the second year running.

Clipper Teas has won the Me and My Factory: Editor’s Choice category in the Food Manufacture Excellence Awards.

The award recognises the work at the manufacturing plant at Beaminster.

Last year the firm won the hot beverages category in the food and drink awards.

Clipper Teas has had a busy year boosting operational efficiency through a new daily lean manufacturing regime and the installation of a new data management programme.

The next 12 months are likely to prove just as significant, as production moves to a new factory on its current site, further boosting efficiency and overall capacity.

Ann Chambers, HR director at Wessanen UK, Clipper Teas brand owner, said she is ‘thrilled’ at the win.

She added: It’s testament to the exceptional work of our team to increase on-site productivity and efficiency to improve operations and ultimately support the wider growth of the business. 

“Clipper is fast establishing itself as a worldwide centre of tea and manufacturing excellence; the progress we’ve made over the last few years has been, and will continue to be, a significant milestone in the life of the Clipper brand.”

The award judges said: "Clipper Teas has displayed an impressive commitment to increasing productivity and efficiency at its Beaminster site. Achievements over the past 12 months include the daily implementation of lean manufacturing and the introduction of a company-wide data management programme.”

Food Manufacture group editor and FMEA judge Mike Stones added: “Judging by the calibre of entries in this year’s food and drink manufacturing Oscars, Britain’s biggest manufacturing sector – food and drink manufacturing – is well placed to take on the challenge of making the best of Brexit’s opportunities while minimising its threats.”

When Wessanen, the Dutch-listed European organic and natural foods company, took over the west Dorset firm in 2012 it invested £1 million to help it cope with the ‘extraordinary’ growth of its business.

Last year plans were unveiled to move all its operations into one site – instead of three – freeing up space for housing.