Family-run agricultural data business secures King’s Award

Family-run farming business Shearwell Data has been formally presented with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.

The honour was conferred by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, during a recent visit to the company’s site near Minehead.

Shearwell Data, which is based on Exmoor, is a global supplier of animal identification and livestock management systems, and the award recognises its exceptional growth in overseas markets.

In the three years to September 2023, the company’s international sales rose by 69%, representing nearly one-third of its total turnover.

See also: King’s Awards for ADF Milking and Teagle Machinery

During his visit, the Lord-Lieutenant toured the firm’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and robotics, where all products are designed, made and rigorously tested on the family’s own farms.

Presenting the award, Mr Saddiq said: “Shearwell Data stands as a beacon of innovation, commitment and community spirit.

“As a major employer in west Somerset and a proud family-run business, you exemplify the very best of what Somerset enterprise represents.”

Emma Thorne, Co-CEO of Shearwell Data, said: “We are deeply honoured to accept the King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of our outstanding growth in international trade.

“Receiving the King’s Award inspires us to go even further.”

Shearwell Data is the largest employer within Exmoor National Park and exports to 35 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US and South Africa.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, now in their 59th year, remain the UK’s most prestigious business honours.