YORK-based Portasilo, which specialises in the design and manufacture of bulk material handling systems has been shortlisted in a new industry awards scheme for its export success.

UK trade association the Solids Handling and Processing Association (SHAPA) has organised the awards to recognise the achievements of organisations that provide equipment and services for the handling and processing of solids and powders.

SHAPA member Portasilo, which is part of the Shepherd Group, and serves clients in the food, water, energy, chemicals, nuclear and construction sectors, has been shortlisted for the Export Award which recognises organisations which have achieved a step change in their export activities, either by a percentage increase in exports or success in opening up new markets.

Portasilo has increased its sales outside the UK from just 10 per cent of turnover in 2008 to approximately 30 per cent in 2013, with particularly strong growth in the Indian market.

The company has established two offices in India: the Chennai office opened in 2008, followed by the Pune office, near Mumbai, in 2012.

Portasilo managing director Neil Gardiner said: "We are proud and honoured to be shortlisted in these new awards which will help the industry to further raise its profile in global markets such as India, where British manufactured quality products continue to do well.”

The awards have been organised by SHAPA in association with Solid & Bulk Handling Magazine. The winners will be announced at an awards dinner at the National Brewery Centre in Burton on Trent tomorrow.