Panaz CEO Tony Attard received an Order of the British Empire (OBE) from the Queen at Buckingham Palace last month, in recognition of his services to the UK textile industry and international trade.Attard founded the Lancashire-based Panaz Limited in 1986, where he has spearheaded the design and technical advancement of flame retardant fabrics for the worldwide hospitality, leisure, cruise ship and healthcare sectors.
Speaking to Attard, 51, about his recent OBE, he comes across as modest. He said: “To be honest it was a massive surprise. I was incredibly shocked. It was a wonderful accolade, not only for me but also for the whole team.”
The company currently exports to 46 countries, operating through a global network of agents and subsidiary companies. Although his company is a significant size already, Attard said he has more development plans up his sleeve. “We would love to expand more over in the USA. Obviously it has been hard with the recession and the USA was one of the worst places hit. Hospitality just died there. It’s starting to recover now though.”
Not only the US, but other countries are on Panaz’s agenda. Attard said: “Panaz has a strong global presence and we’re investing in places like Russia and working with the Far East. We also distribute to Australia.”
