Confectioner awarded MBE

John Winnard, joint managing director of Uncle Joe’s, has been awarded an MBE in recognition of his outstanding services to the UK food manufacturing industry, according to our sister publication Confectionery Production.

Winnard has worked towards developing international trade opportunities for SMEs. His tireless efforts in the Wigan and wider Northwest community have helped to support economic growth.

Having successfully exported the Uncle Joe’s brand across Europe, US, Japan and Australia, Winnard has become a long standing member of the government’s International Trade Development Advisory panel.

Winnard is a regular figure at international trade shows around the world, talking passionately about the Uncle Joe story and his pride in UK manufacturing for which he is a fervent ambassador.

Winnard says, “It’s great to be recognised. I think it is important in business that you are prepared to share your experience and hopefully inspire someone else to take up a challenge and be successful. The Uncle Joe’s brand has inspired us to develop the company – over 110 years of mint ball production teaches you a lot!”