Turbosound, which has won the Queen's Award for Export Achievement twice in 10 years and is shortlisted for an Innovation Award this year, is part of the 'Made By Britain' project initiative under which MPs champion manufacturing in their constituency.
The aim of the scheme, which is being promoted by the Associate Parliamentary Manufacturing Group, is to demonstrate the diversity and comprehensive nature of contemporary British industry.
In November 2011 the Government also launched a 'Make it in Great Britain' campaign, which aims to transform the image of modern British manufacturing and raise awareness of its importance for the economy. The UK is one of the world's largest manufacturers and the sector contributes £140 billion a year to the economy.
During his visit, Mr Herbert was not only shown the manufacturing process of a loudspeaker system from start to finish, but also had the opportunity to listen to the quality of the newest technology being tested for future speaker ranges.
Speaking after the visit, Turbosound's managing director, Simon Blackwood, said, "We were delighted to host Nick at our UK manufacturing centre as part of the 'Made By Britain' initiative.
"Whilst we may be a small enterprise, we have a long and rich history of technology innovation that places our brand at the premium position in the world market. I hope the visit gave Nick a grasp of why we proudly manufacture in the UK."
Mr Herbert commented: "I was fascinated to visit Turbosound and it was great to see a local company competing - literally - on the international stage. I think there's a tendency to talk down manufacturing in Britain, yet we are the sixth largest manufacturer in the world and, after Germany, the largest in Europe.
"Advanced manufacturing is a critical part of the drive to rebalance the economy, so I was particularly pleased to see that even in the rural South Downs we have successful businesses which are contributing to that aim."
(Jim Evans)
