Award Recipients

Hampshire-based Sonardyne International’s achievement of receiving two King’s Awards for Enterprise in 2025 – for Sustainable Development and International Trade – represents a rare distinction that underscores the marine technology company’s exceptional performance across multiple dimensions of business excellence.

While its environmental credentials are impressive, it’s the company’s outstanding international sales achievements and global market expansion that have earned it the King’s Award for International Trade. For more than 50 years, Sonardyne has been at the forefront of revolutionising underwater technology, but its recent international success reflects a strategic evolution that has transformed it from a UK-based innovator into a global market leader.

Strategic international expansion
Sonardyne’s international trade success stems from its ability to master complex underwater challenges for clients worldwide. The company empowers its customers across the globe to navigate, position, command and gather cutting-edge data beneath the waves, all while maintaining its commitment to safety and environmental responsibility.

The company’s international approach reflects a carefully harmonised balance of technological innovation and globally focused business strategy. By developing solutions that address universal underwater challenges, Sonardyne has successfully penetrated diverse international markets, establishing itself as the go-to partner for marine technology worldwide.

Diversification has reduced dependence on oil and gas markets by expanding into offshore renewables, defence and ocean science sectors. Here, the company has leveraged its core underwater technology platforms across these different applications, using its tried and tested technological foundations to serve diverse market needs.

Sonardyne’s international expansion first began in the 1990s through establishing offices in the USA, Brazil and Singapore, with teams serving regional markets, providing valuable local knowledge, support and training. Sonardyne continues this expansion today with a new office in Germany being introduced in 2025.

Responsible practices
Sonardyne’s ability to achieve carbon neutrality in its UK operations in 2023 – two years ahead of its 2025 target – while simultaneously expanding internationally demonstrates how responsible business practices can enhance, rather than hinder, global competitiveness.

Financial performance has exceeded expectations throughout this period, putting Sonardyne in a strong position to capture further growth opportunities in underwater technology markets around the world, with international exports accounting for 80% of the company’s revenue.

Managing Director Graham Brown emphasised this integrated approach when accepting the two King’s Awards: “We’ve shown that sustainability and international growth can be pursued together with mutual success. My hope is that our story helps inspire organisations to adopt equally responsible practices as they chase new horizons.”

Future global ambitions
This latest accolade builds upon Sonardyne’s proven track record of excellence. Having previously won a Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2021, the company has now demonstrated sustained leadership across innovation, sustainability and international commerce. The dual recognition in 2025 for both Sustainable Development and International Trade demonstrates that British businesses can compete successfully on the world stage while maintaining the highest standards of corporate responsibility, setting a powerful example for others seeking international growth.