News & views

14 May 2025

Leicestershire Business Voice is proud to announce that one of its newest members, Abacus Flooring Solutions is one of 16 companies from across the East Midlands to receive a King’s Award for Enterprise.

Abacus Flooring Solutions was joined by other Leicestershire businesses – Structural Adhesives Ltd, Cabinzero Limited and Michael Smith Switchgear Ltd – to recognise the city and county’s role in driving innovation and economic growth.

Seven businesses were recognised in the International Trade category, five for Innovation, two for Sustainable Development and two for Promoting Opportunity Through Social Mobility.

East Midlands recipients include: ·

• Abacus Flooring Solutions – Innovation
• Garner Aluminium Extrusions – Innovation
• Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) – Innovation
• Structural Adhesives – Innovation
• GeoPura – Innovation
• Collaborate & Innovate – International Trade
• Cabinzero – International Trade
• Enovation Consulting – International Trade
• Stephensons Online – International Trade
• Ziggurat XYZ – International Trade
• Abacus Lighting – International Trade
• Midland Aerospace – International Trade
• Upbeat Enterprise – Promoting Opportunity
• Bridgeway Consulting – Promoting Opportunity
• David Nieper – Sustainable Development
• Michael Smith Switchgear – Sustainable Development

Nick Megson, Managing Director from Abacus Flooring Solutions said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive the King’s Award for Innovation for our product, Abaplas. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the entire team behind what is truly a world-first achievement – a high-performance material made entirely from 100% recycled plastic.

“Abaplas was born out of a commitment to tackling one of the planet’s most pressing challenges: plastic waste. We set out not just to recycle plastic, but to reimagine its potential. The result is a breakthrough material that proves sustainability and innovation can and must go hand in hand.

“Winning this award reinforces our belief that environmental responsibility can drive cutting-edge technological progress. It’s a proud moment for us, but it’s also a call to action. We hope this recognition will inspire others across industries to push boundaries, embrace circular design, and create solutions that protect the planet for future generations.”

Sue Tilley, Chair of LBV added: “Businesses across Leicester and Leicestershire have a proud tradition of innovation and enterprise, so we’re particularly delighted that Abacus Flooring Solutions, one of the growing band of new LBV members in 2025 – has been duly recognised for its enormous achievements and contribution to the local business community.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The awards programme, now in its 59th year, has awarded over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965.

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – The King’s representatives in each county – will be presenting the awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special Royal reception event.