Chief Operating Officer, Chris Ward, spoke to Electronic Specifier about what the accolade meant for the company, how its culture underpins its growth, and what lies ahead.
The King’s Award for Enterprise is among the most prestigious honours a British business can receive. Each year, companies from across the UK undergo a rigorous application process, with only a select few shortlisted for final approval by No.10 Downing Street and the Palace.
Ward described the moment he learned the company had been chosen: “Yeah, what an experience … we set up SolderKing just over six years ago and built the company from the ground up. Everything we produce is manufactured here in the UK, from cored wire and solder paste to flux, bar solder, and other consumables.
“When we were awarded for international trade, it was noted that 44% of our revenue comes from exports. Then a letter arrived from His Majesty the King, inviting us to Windsor Castle for a royal reception. When you get there, honestly, it’s an experience I’ll never forget. You walk into the hall and are met by various members of the Royal Family. It’s a moment I’ll cherish forever.”
A culture of quality and consistency
The award, Ward said, reflects the company’s deep-rooted culture of quality and consistency – values shared by every member of the team.
“SolderKing is built on quality. Everyone – from production to customer service – understands the importance of delivering consistent products. We’re a team of seven, relatively small, but we work efficiently, and I couldn’t ask to work with better people.”
This culture has helped the company navigate significant industry and economic challenges over the past six years, including Brexit-related trade changes, COVID-19, and global supply chain pressures.
“There have been plenty of headaches,” Ward admitted. “But we’ve always adapted. Our ability to remain agile and responsive has helped us stay on the front foot and continue supplying innovative soldering materials to customers.”
Investing in the future
With recognition from the King behind them, SolderKing is looking ahead. The company is preparing to launch a new range of high-reliability, high-performance products – including solder wires, solder pastes, and fluxes – with a focus on medical, military, and consumer electronics markets.
“It’s a very exciting time. We’ve already invested significantly in new equipment – moving from one wire drawer to five, alongside expanded testing capabilities – and there are definite plans to grow the team as we scale.”
Remaining closely connected to customers has been a vital ingredient of SolderKing’s approach, helping the company stay attuned to evolving technical requirements.
“You’ve got to be with the customer, listening to their challenges. That’s how new products are born. We take that feedback, review it with the team, and come up with solutions.”
Staying the course
While the King’s Award represents a milestone, Ward was clear that it also sets a precedent for the future.
“It’s one of the most prestigious awards any UK business can win. But the message is: keep going. We’ve already built a solid foundation; now it’s about letting the tree grow. The consistency and quality that got us here – that’s already embedded in what we do.”
Ward believes SolderKing’s agility and technical support give it a unique edge in the market.
“We’re not just a supplier – we’re a partner. Soldering materials are fundamental to the electronics process, and customers rely on us for reliability and support. That means being available and keeping products like fluxes performing at their peak for every application.”
A message to the team – and the industry
Ward’s pride in his team was unmistakable: “Honestly, I’m incredibly proud of them. They’re a fantastic bunch, and I couldn’t do any of this without them. It’s a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated group.”
And his message to the wider industry?
“If you haven’t tried SolderKing yet – get in touch. We’re happy to arrange samples or have one of our team visit your site. If you’ve got pain points or challenges, let us support you.”
In just over six years, SolderKing has gone from a startup to an award-winning exporter with global ambitions. With a clear strategy, continued investment, and a strong team culture, the company looks set to continue its upward trajectory – both at home and abroad.
