Exol Lubricants named Manufacturing Trailblazer for 2026

Exol Lubricants has been named a Manufacturing Trailblazer for 2026 in the WIRED X HSBC Trailblazer Awards, following a rigorous assessment of around 300 businesses from across the UK.

The WIRED x HSBC Trailblazer programme recognises UK businesses that are redefining industry standards through innovation, driving growth and leading positive change. Exol was selected as one of its Manufacturing Trailblazers following research and evaluation by WIRED Consulting and HSBC.

Exol initially came to the attention of WIRED Consulting and HSBC following the company’s receipt of the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2025. Further evaluation of the business highlighted Exol’s wider commitment to sustainability, responsible manufacturing and continued investment in its UK operations

The recognition adds to a growing list of accolades for Exol and builds on more than 40 years of manufacturing excellence, underpinned by its longstanding focus on product quality, excellent customer service and UK-based production.

With its head office in Wednesbury and blending plant in Rotherham, Exol manufactures a comprehensive range of lubricants for the automotive, commercial vehicle, agricultural, marine and industrial sectors. The company continues to invest across its UK operations to support growing global demand, while strengthening its sustainability credentials through initiatives designed to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact

Exol’s Sales and Marketing Director, Steve Dunn, joined fellow Trailblazer businesses at a networking event in Birmingham with WIRED consulting and HSBC. Discussions explored manufacturing sector trends and the challenges and opportunities of scaling UK businesses, featuring speakers including Chris Corkan, Matt Windle, Carolyn Hicks and Tom Anderson.

Steve commented: “It’s a fantastic achievement to be named a Manufacturing Trailblazer for 2026 in the WIRED x HSBC Trailblazer awards. To have been selected following such a comprehensive evaluation of businesses from across the UK makes the recognition particularly meaningful and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of colleagues across Exol.

“For more than 40 years, we have remained committed to manufacturing high-quality products here in the UK, backed by excellent customer service, while continually investing in our operations and looking for ways to improve our environmental performance.

“We would like to thank WIRED and HSBC for recognising that commitment and for bringing together this year’s Trailblazers to share ideas, experiences and ambitions for future growth.”

For more information on Exol Lubricants, visit: https://www.exol-lubricants.com/