The UK’s largest die-maker – Arden Dies – has been recognised for its commitment to digital innovation.

Arden Dies, which has its headquarters in Marple, Stockport, won the Digital Transformation Award in the North West Family Business Awards, which celebrate the success and accomplishments of family-owned businesses across the region from all industries and sectors.

This recognition comes as Arden Dies celebrates its 60-year anniversary, marking six decades of excellence and innovation in the die-making industry.

The business was founded as a die-makers in 1964 by brothers Frank and Philip Poynter from the cellar of their family home in Stockport. Fast-forward to today and the Arden Group of companies, which comprises a die-making, engraving and software arm, is a leading name in the packaging sector employing around 300 people around the world, and is now in its third generation of family ownership.

Martin Poynter, Managing Director of the Arden Group, said: “Ever since the early days of Arden, we’ve always strived to be at the forefront of technological innovation, committed to embracing new technology to better serve our customers and drive growth.

“Our founder, my father Frank Poynter, was a trailblazer in the die-making industry and the first to adopt new laser technology in the 1970s. His vision for technology and innovation is an ethos we still hold today and this recognition reinforces our position as a leader in the sector and motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

“The Arden Group is proud to be a family business, built on strong family values, so it’s a real honour to be recognised in the North West Family Business Awards, during what is a very special anniversary year. This award is testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, as well as a celebration of our family’s legacy of innovation spanning over six decades.”

The judges were impressed with Arden’s forward-thinking culture and participation in the Made Smarter programme, which is a Government-backed initiative to support manufacturers to adopt cutting-edge technologies and digital skills to help boost productivity, drive growth and create new jobs.

Since its involvement with the Made Smarter programme, Arden has incorporated 3D printing into its manufacturing processes and is currently developing a cloud-based ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system to streamline and automate its business operations.

In April this year, the Arden Group completed the acquisition of Lasercomb Dies, cementing its position as the UK’s largest die-maker, specialising in die and tooling manufacture for the packaging and carton industry.

As the Arden Group celebrates its 60th anniversary, the company remains focused on delivering innovative products and exceptional service to its customers around the world. With a strong foundation built on decades of experience and expertise, Arden is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and excellence for generations to come.

The awards are organised by The Family Business Community and were held at Bolton Football Stadium on May 10. They were presented by food writer, broadcaster and proud northerner Nigel Barden along with co-founders of the Family Business Community, Dave Clarkson and Sue Howorth, who said: “The turnout of family businesses and those who support the sector was incredible. We’re so grateful for everyone who came out to support the awards and recognise the hard work and dedication of our North West family businesses.”