CONTENTS
As I write this, we are still reflecting on another fantastic Make Your Mark Awards, which once again demonstrated everything that makes Aycliffe Business Park such a special place to do business.
Now in its eighth year, the awards continue to shine a spotlight on the incredible companies, organisations and individuals that make our business community one of the strongest and most collaborative in the UK.
From ambitious start-ups and apprentices to long-established manufacturers and service providers, the breadth of talent on display this year was truly inspiring.
More than 250 guests joined us at Hardwick Hall to celebrate success across the park, and it was particularly pleasing to see so many new businesses alongside familiar faces.
The evening showcased not only commercial success but also innovation, resilience, community spirit and a commitment to developing future talent.
Congratulations once again to all our winners, finalists and sponsors, as well as everyone involved in organising another memorable event.
AYCLIFFE BUSINESS
Aycliffe Business is Newton Aycliffe’ s only business publication, which is mailed exclusively to companies on Aycliffe Business Park.
Launched in November 2012, we provide firms with a unique platform to tell everyone about their services and success stories in our prestigious, high-quality publication.
With an estimated readership of more than 8,000, copies are mailed direct to every company on our database, and the rest are distributed by hand across the park as well as nearby hotels, restaurants and conference centres.
To book space in future issues of Aycliffe Business, email martin @ aycliffetoday. co. uk
HELLO
GUEST FOREWORD FROM PAUL HIND
The awards are a reminder that, despite the challenges businesses continue to face, there is plenty to be optimistic about here on Aycliffe Business Park.
The event also raised more than £ 3,000 for the Great North Air Ambulance Service, demonstrating the generosity and communityminded spirit that runs throughout our business park.
In this latest issue of Aycliffe Business, you’ ll find coverage of the Make Your Mark Awards alongside the latest business news, investment stories and success stories from across the park.
As always, thank you for your continued support of Aycliffe Business and the Aycliffe Business Park Community.
I hope you enjoy the magazine.
Paul Hind Aycliffe Business Park Community board member
Aycliffe Business Units 8-9, Parson’ s Court, Welbury Way, Aycliffe Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, Co. Durham DL5 6ZE
www. aycliffetoday. co. uk
Published & distributed by Mantis Media Ltd: www. mantis-media. com
Tel: 01325 728024 Email: martin @ aycliffetoday. co. uk Managing Editor: Martin Walker.
Contributors to this issue: Martin Walker, Dave Robson.
Our photographers: Chris Booth, Tom Banks.
Designed by KINSHIP: Email sarah @ designbykinship. co. uk.
Included in the 79th issue of Aycliffe Business …
4 TEES BUSINESS SHOWCASE
Explore new business horizons at major expo
7 PASSION FOR PARTNERSHIPS
Why Optimum Skills is keen to attract more partners
11 TREASURE UNLOCKED
Tbox Tech free to enter bold new era
12-25 MAKE YOUR MARK 2026
See our special feature on the 2026 Make Your Mark Awards
26 SKY HIGH CHARITY
Make Your Mark Awards raises £ 3,000 for Great North Air Ambulance Service
27 A VISION FOR GROWTH
New managing director Kerry Walker sets out vision for Business Durham
The magazine for Aycliffe Business Park | 3