MD of Gateshead manufacturer receives MBE for services to export

The managing director of a North East manufacturing business has received an MBE.

Kate Wickham, of Gateshead-based Gate 7, was recognised with the accolade for her Services to Export and Outward Investment.

Gate 7 manufactures specialist components for the automotive sector, including decals and vehicle livery for machinery used in construction and agriculture.

Kate, 34, has run the business since 2005. Exports currently account for 60% of its revenues.

Kate’s father Keith Wickham, chairman of Gate 7, said: “It takes a lot of guts to travel the world and Kate is a resolute and courageous traveller, making business trips alone to each corner of Europe as well as to India and America. This is why I am so proud that she has been awarded an MBE.

“Exporting for a manufacturing business is not an easy option! The honour will without doubt help Kate with her vision for growth and expansion of the Gate 7 Group, through its manufacturing sites in the UK and America.”

He added: “Gate 7 was honoured with a Queen’s Award for Export some years ago and since Kate has become MD, she has built on the strategy that led to that award.”

Kate was honoured with the MBE at Buckingham Palace by Princess Anne, who engaged her in a detailed conversation about her role in industry.

Kate commented: “This honour will […] help with our vision for the growth and expansion of the Gate 7 group, through our manufacturing sites in the UK and America.

“Despite the uncertainties of World economics, we have steered the company into a position of solid financial foundations and established a focus that should enable growth and prosperity to flourish from the blue chip client base that is served by the company.”

John Doolan, an international trade advisor, praised Kate Wickham as “a driving force” behind Gate 7’s “export success”.

He said: “[The company has] worked with DIT/UKTI for many years developing international markets.”

Kate’s work, he explained, has resulted “in not only increased sales to existing clients, but also grown the business into new markets increasing its international customer base.”

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