The founder and managing director of a successful St Asaph based company met business owners from across the UK, as well as Government Ministers, when he attended an event at Number 10 Downing Street last week.
Tony Palframan of Phoenix Optical Technologies (POTL), which is situated on St Asaph Business Park, was invited by Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies to attend last Wednesday’s Business Champions Event.
The event at Number 10 was hosted by the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of local businesses from across the UK.
Speaking following his visit, Tony said:
“It was an absolute privilege to attend this event at 10 Downing Street and I thank James for inviting me.
“I have been to Downing Street before, but this was my first time at No 10.
“At the event I was able to speak to other businesses from across the UK, and I also spoke with Stephen Crabb MP about his committee’s inquiry into what makes big businesses vulnerable, which was very useful.
“Overall I had a fantastic day and it was a great honour to be able to represent my business and the area at such a prestigious event.”
Tony founded POTL in 1991 and since that time it has grown from strength to strength, and now makes optics for the defence industry.
James said:
“I was very pleased to welcome Tony to Parliament and to attend the reception with him.
“It was wonderful to see so many local business champions from across the country all together at the event. Tony was able to share his knowledge and ideas with them, whilst also gaining useful advice from them.
"What Tony has achieved since establishing Phoenix Optical Technologies more than 30 years ago is highly commendable and I was very proud to have him at the event representing the Vale of Clwyd.”
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt said:
“Local businesses are vital for our economy, our day to day lives and our communities. Creating jobs, supporting growth in a huge variety of sectors, their tireless hard work does not go unnoticed.
“As Chancellor, I see the contribution that local businesses make across the country to all our cities, towns and villages and this is something we can all be proud of. Not only do they bring immeasurable value to the economy, but they are also the heart and soul of so many of our communities."
