BATA Treasurer, Jack Churchill, awarded OBE
Jack Churchill, BATA Treasurer and CEO of Scanning Pens, was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year Honours list for services to international trade and to the Dyslexia and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities community, and received his award in person from the Prince of Wales this month. Jack has first hand experience of dyslexia and has developed his business alongside his co-founder over the last 20 years. Scanning Pens is an organisation that provides portable text-to-speech pen scanners which empower young and adult readers by giving them the tool to instantly access printed text anywhere. This assistive technology is now used daily by thousands of schools, workplaces and in prisons. The organisation with its UK offices in Telford, Shropshire & Westbury, Wiltshire has sold to more than 100 countries. More than 50% of the company’s business is attributed to international trade, and it now has overseas offices in the USA, Canada, Australia and India.
Jack said of this achievement "To say we are honoured by this announcement is an understatement. When we first started this venture over 20 years ago, we saw the opportunity to establish a business that could help millions of individuals with their literacy needs. Looking back, it is fantastic to know that through our technology we have supported so many to succeed.
Alongside Jack, other British business leaders, exporters and Department for International Trade staff have been recognised with Honours for their exceptional service to international trade, investment and exporting. Those honoured represent a diverse range of businesses, from companies exporting technology that supports people with special educational needs and disabilities around the world to business leaders who have championed an array of sectors – from fintech to construction and maritime.
Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said of the importance of the work by those selected “Trade drives economic growth, creates jobs and supports businesses and communities up and down the country. Our fantastic exporters and dedicated trade officials are the ones who make that a reality and it’s brilliant to see them get the recognition they deserve. 2023 is full of opportunities as we continue to take advantage of our newfound freedoms, unlock new markets and help businesses to sell their products all around the world.
Without doubt, BATA is hopeful that more of our sector's business will continue to succeed and be recognised at home and internationally. Speaking to the future, Jack said “Without the support of our families and the whole team, neither of us would be receiving an OBE today. We look forward to many years ahead as we drive our business forward, whilst at the same time helping even more individuals in their daily lives.”