ONE of Worcester’s leading employers, domestic heating specialists Worcester, Bosch Group, has been recognised as one of the best places in the country to work.

The company, which is based in Cotswold Way, Warndon, has reached the shortlist for the 2013 best factories awards. The awards, now in their 22nd year, celebrates manufacturing excellence in the UK and are run by the Cranfield School of Management in partnership with Works Management magazine. A total of 14 factories make up the shortlist and Bosch is the only Midlands-based employer.

Carl Arntzen, managing director at Worcester, Bosch Group, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted as one of Britain’s best factories.

“As the UK’s leading manufacturer of domestic heating and hot water technologies, we have invested heavily in the factory and are extremely proud to be recognised for this merit.

“We have developed a number of bespoke manufacturing functions that help us to achieve high levels of quality and efficiency and these developments ultimately allow us to continue providing premium products for our customers.

“We are also particularly proud to be recognised for our commitment to the environment.

“Since 2007, we have achieved a 23 per cent reduction in carbon emissions and we continue to maintain a zero to landfill record.

“Our Greenstar boiler range also boasts a 100 per cent level of component recycling. It is an honour to be shortlisted along so many great names in British manufacturing, as it’s a true demonstration of how well the sector is recovering.”

Dr Marek Szwejczewski, director of the best factory awards, said: “This year’s awards generated a high number of entries – all of a very high calibre. This is very encouraging for UK manufacturing showing the sector is very much alive.

“Figures released last week from the Office for National Statistics show manufacturing output surged in June at the strongest pace since 2010.”

The winners will be announced at the glittering BFA Awards Ceremony which will be held in London on September 27.