A Pembrokeshire family-run business that now helps customers worldwide has been awarded the UK’s most prestigious business honour - The King’s Award for Enterprise.

FRIO UK is the manufacturer of the world’s first patented medication and insulin-cooling wallet.

Using specially developed crystals that activate when wet, the wallets keep medication cool whatever the weather by the process of evaporation.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, Chris Wolsey, Managing Director of FRIO UK and FRIO staff celebrating the King’s Award for Enterprise Award.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, Chris Wolsey, Managing Director of FRIO UK and FRIO staff celebrating the King’s Award for Enterprise Award. (Pic supplied)

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, presented the award at the company’s premises in Little Treffgarne on November 12 at an event attended by FRIO staff, invited guests and business colleagues.

She said: “You can see a real sense of pride in the products they create.”

Mr Chris Wolsey, Managing Director of FRIO UK received the award.

Mr Wolsey said: “It was a pleasure to have the Lord-Lieutenant present the award to myself, it is dedicated to my mum, dad for their hard work and entrepreneurial mindset. It is also dedicated to my family, everybody who works at FRIO UK and also those we work closely with around the world.

“I am proud to be a Pembrokeshire man and FRIO UK is a Pembrokeshire business, employing local people and based in the heart of the county.

“To receive the highest honour that can be bestowed on a UK business is such a proud moment for us all and I wish to thank everyone who has played their part in this success.”

Lord-Lieutenant
The Lord-Lieutenant said: “It was fascinating to hear about how the company has evolved and now exports to more than 70 countries worldwide. “From speaking with the staff you can see a real sense of pride in the products they create and the knowledge that they are making a very real difference to the lives of customers.” (Pic supplied)

The Lord-Lieutenant was assisted by Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet Laura Edwards and the High Sheriff of Dyfed, Helen Jones was also in attendance for the presentation ceremony.

Cllr Steve Alderman, Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council carried out the introductions.

The King’s Award for Enterprise encompasses four categories, Innovation, Sustainable Development, Promoting Opportunity and International Trade.

FRIO UK was one of just 11 companies in Wales to have received the Award in 2024