Kingfisher Industrial is celebrating double success following a memorable evening at BULKEX 2025, held at Chesford Grange on Tuesday, 14 October. The company was named the winner of the MHEA Innovation Award, while its owner, John Connolly, received the prestigious Harold Wright Lifetime Achievement Award.
Kingfisher Award Winners Bulkex: Organised by the Materials Handling Engineers’ Association (MHEA), BULKEX 2025 opened with an address from MHEA President Matthew Beverley, who reflected on the event’s growth into one of the most respected forums in materials handling. He also underlined the sector’s vital contribution to the wider economy. Working alongside MHEA Secretary Linda White and the Executive Committee, the team delivered a dynamic two-day programme that combined technical excellence with a friendly, collaborative atmosphere.
The event featured twelve expert presentations and a bustling exhibition showcasing the latest innovations and solutions for the bulk materials handling industry. The celebrations continued into the evening, when more than 200 guests gathered for the MHEA Excellence Awards, joined by guest hosts Paul Merson and Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock, creating an atmosphere of energy and anticipation.
Kingfisher’s Innovation Award win reflects the company’s commitment to delivering practical engineering that enhances safety, reliability and long-term value for operators. The shortlisted project, the Smart IoT AbrAlarm Wear Detection System, builds on Kingfisher’s original AbrAlarm, first launched in 1997. The new system introduces wireless communication technology designed for demanding industrial settings, providing dependable, cost-effective wear monitoring that supports both planned and predictive maintenance. It can connect up to one hundred sensors, each with IP65 protection and a five-year battery life.
Adding to the celebrations, company owner John Connolly was presented with the Harold Wright Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his outstanding service and lasting contribution to the bulk materials handling industry over many years.
Kevin Price, Managing Director, said:
“BULKEX 25 was certainly memorable. Winning the Innovation Award is a team achievement, and the Harold Wright Lifetime Achievement Award presented to John is richly deserved. These awards belong to everyone connected with Kingfisher. To our long-term customers who continually push us to improve, and to our suppliers who help us deliver, thank you for your trust and collaboration. We also thank the MHEA, the judges and our partners for their recognition and continued support.”
For further information, contact the Kingfisher team on 01562 543108 or email enquiries@kingfisher-industrial.com