Keynote speakers included Lord Mandelson, Secretary of state for business, innovation and skills. Vince Cable, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer and leading business CEOs. The 48 Group Club was formed in the early 1950's when the founders were the first westerners to break the international trade embargo on China (The Icebreakers). The original 48 companies involved went on to establish mutually beneficial trade relations with the newly formed People's Republic of China. Today the club has over 500 British and Chinese members mostly senior executives from corporate organisations as well as high-level politicians, diplomats and academics.
J&C Joel Limited is renowned as one of the worlds leading theatrical drape manufacturers, and one of the few remaining manufacturers in Yorkshire to proudly promote quality British workmanship and craft overseas. The region has always been integral to J&C Joel's worldwide distribution of theatrical products .The company's long relationship with China started some 20 years ago and has recently been reinforced by the opening of an office in Hong Kong.
CEO James Wheelwright and Managing Director Andrew Walsh attended and accepted the award.
'We are very honoured to receive this award and understand just how important this is for the continuing growth of J&C Joel not only in China but the rest of the world. It is great recognition for the entire team at J&C Joel and also enforces our commitment to the region.' says James.
'We were so proud to be nominated and to win was just wonderful. We see it as a major achievement to be exporting to China when most UK companies import from the region.' Added Andrew.
