Wayne Edy, the founder of inov-8, has won the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Consumer Products and Services 2012 category for the northern region of the UK.
The award recognises individuals who demonstrate success in areas such as innovation, strategy, financial performance and social responsibility.
Edy founded inov-8 in 2003, selling minimalist off-road shoes. Today the company trades in over 50 countries globally.
Turnover has increased year on year and in 2011 Edy cracked the American market, with the f-lite becoming a popular shoe within both crossfit and functional fitness.
The judging panel described Edy as: “A true risk taker who gave his all to the business.”
Edy says: “It’s an honour to be recognised as Entrepreneur of the Year in the Consumer Products and Services 2012 category.
“Since the conception of inov-8, we have focused on delivering exceptional products that meet the very specific needs of our customer base and that challenge the boundaries within our industry.
“This award recognises that, as well as the hard work and determination of all the inov-8 staff.”