Wootzano and Karbon join our team to back business awards
Based at Cobalt Business Park in North Tyneside, Wootzano has patented technology able to delicately handle soft produce.
Dr Atif Syed, CEO and Founder of Wootzano, told us: “We decided to support the Awards, particularly the Exports category because this category aligns closely with our mission to address critical global challenges in the fresh produce industry through innovation.
“At Wootzano, we have developed groundbreaking technologies, such as the Avarai robotic system, to tackle the increasing strain on skilled labour and enhance operational efficiency without disrupting existing processes in food packing.
“Our focus on innovation and sustainability has allowed us to expand our reach beyond the North East of England to the rest of the UK and internationally, including regions like Malaysia and Saudi Arabia where automation solutions are often inaccessible due to economic constraints.
“Supporting the Awards allows us to celebrate and highlight the importance of innovation in exporting transformative solutions worldwide. It is also an opportunity to showcase the dedication of our diverse team, whose efforts have positioned us at the cutting edge of technology, driving productivity, sustainability, and economic development globally.
To join Karbon and Wootzano as sponsors, contact ryan.fenwick@localiq.co.uk, or to nominate a business for an award, go to bit.ly/2025biqnominations
“We are absolutely thrilled about the upcoming awards evening at Wynyard and incredibly grateful to be part of such a prestigious event. As a team, we’re overjoyed to have the opportunity to support and celebrate all the incredible talent that has been nominated this year. It’s inspiring to see so much innovation and hard work across the industry, and we are truly honoured to be involved.
“The evening promises to be a fantastic occasion, and we are eagerly looking forward to connecting with like-minded individuals and celebrating the remarkable achievements of everyone in attendance.”
Dr Syed said it had been an exciting time for his company, particularly after a recent crowdfunding success: “Things are going incredibly well at Wootzano, and our recent Crowdcube crowdfunding campaign raised an amazing £381,216, a testament to the trust and belief our supporters and investors have in our vision.
“These funds are instrumental in driving our global expansion and accelerating the development of robotics solutions in the fresh produce industry.
This marks a pivotal step forward, and we’re more motivated than ever to shape a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and efficiency.
“We can’t wait to see what’s next on this incredible journey.”
In the wider region, he said there was still plenty more to come across a range of sectors.
“The North East of England and Newcastle hold immense potential in 2025, and it’s exciting to see the region increasingly recognised as a hub for innovation and growth. One of the primary challenges the area faces is addressing skill shortages, particularly in industries like technology and clean energy, which are vital to the region’s future. However, this challenge also presents an incredible opportunity to invest in education, training, and partnerships with local universities to build a highly skilled workforce.
“The region’s strong foundation in advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, and renewable energy positions it perfectly to capitalise on the UK’s green economy initiatives.
“By fostering collaboration between businesses, policymakers, and educational institutions, the North East can attract investment, create jobs, and continue its transformation into a globally competitive centre for innovation.
“The spirit of innovation and resilience here makes the North East an inspiring place to do business.”
For one of our other awards sponsors, Karbon Homes, Ian Johnson, Executive Director of Customer Services, said they wanted to highlight businesses ‘who share our passion for making a difference’.
As sponsors of the Community Impact category, Ian told us: While a good home is foundation enough for many people, for others a strong, thriving community around them, that provides them with the support they need, is vital.
“At Karbon we’re committed to building strong, sustainable places and giving back to the communities we serve, and we’re proud to be backing the BUSINESSiQ’s Community Impact award this year, shining a light on those businesses in our region who share our passion for making a difference.
“The BUSINESSiQ Awards is always a great event, celebrating the fantastic achievements of the North East’s unique business community. We’re looking forward to joining the celebrations in April, which showcase why the North East is such as terrific place to live and work.
“The last 12 months have brought many challenges for the region’s business community but throughout, one of its greatest strengths has been its commitment to building up and flying the flag for the North East.
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“Devolution means that going forward, more decisions which impact the North East will be made by the people who understand the region best. With continued optimism and drive to reimagine the future of the economy and work together to make positive change, despite ongoing challenges the region’s future growth and prosperity looks bright.
“It’s a pleasure to be part of a business community that remains proud and committed to its region, and as business confidence grows so does the need to celebrate and learn from one another’s successes.”
The organisation is looking ahead to a year if investment in homes and in people’s hopes: “We’ll aim to push forward as both a successful business and an organisation with a fierce social purpose, helping people and places across the North East to thrive,” said Ian.
“We’ll remain committed to the delivery of our three strategic aims: Continuing to provide as many good quality homes as possible, through both building new and investing heavily in the upkeep and improvement of our existing homes; Staying dedicated to delivering an excellent customer service, ensuring our customers are safe, secure and have access to the key services and support they need to thrive; Remaining committed to building strong sustainable places for our communities, leading meaningful, place-based initiatives that help our communities to overcome the challenges they face.”