Burnley company hailed as one of nation's outstanding businesses for contribution to pandemic effort

Hapton-based Panaz has been recognised by the British Chambers of Commerce in its UK Business Heroes campaign, launched to identify inspiring businesses whose efforts had demonstrated exceptional resilience, despite this year’s unprecedented circumstances.

Textile manufacturer Panaz has been selected following its contributions to NHS initiatives and distribution of protective antimicrobial supplies, and was one of 15 companies selected by the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce to represent the region in this national campaign.

Panaz chief executive Tony Attard said: “During the turbulent events of the last few months, we are reminded that no business can operate without the hard work and commitment of its staff, and I’m thankful to all Panaz employees who have helped to keep the company operating through these unprecedented times.

"Likewise, it’s only through the dedication and resourcefulness of organisations like those highlighted in the UK Business Heroes campaign that we are starting to see our lives return to something like normal and Panaz are honoured to be counted among these exceptional enterprises.”

Earlier this year, Panaz was instrumental in the delivery of thousands of metres of their antimicrobial Aston and Cadet fabrics to the NHS Nightingale Hospitals. Panaz staff worked tirelessly to fulfil large demands under exceptional conditions, ensuring that the emergency sites could be operational and treat patients as early as possible.

Panaz met the extraordinary demands in a short amount of time thanks to its Shieldplus antimicrobial technology, which has been independently tested as effective in inhibiting the spread of the coronavirus.

Alongside this, Panaz has successfully produced a range of cleaning products based around their Shieldplus technology, in response to the growing need to guard against the spread of infection.

During the pandemic, Panaz also turned its fabric manufacturing expertise to the creation of facemasks. Working with 360 Protex, Panaz helped to produce a collection of high quality, locally made, reusable facemasks and coverings with antimicrobial properties, offering a more desirable and safer alternative to disposable facemasks.

Panaz was also involved in providing 1,000 facemasks to Pendleside Hospice in support of all the incredible work the staff there were doing under strenuous conditions.