A LAUNDRY and hygiene manufacturer has been shortlisted for business of the year in Halton Business and Tourism Awards 2013.

This Widnes company is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Prime Industries, of Halebank, was founded by Roy Longshaw, aged 47, and his former wife, Lynda, aged 57.

They started with just two soap powders bought in bulk and packed by hand with a scoop and set of scales.

The company now produces their own range of laundry and cleaning powders and liquids, and employs 21 staff.

General manager Stephen Leigh said: “Winning this award would help us to raise the profile and awareness of our company and what we are trying to achieve. It will strengthen our position in the market.

“It would also put us in a position to either target or get noticed by larger blue chip companies and local authorities with confidence knowing that we have been awarded this accolade.”

He said the company is working on several new projects and plans to recruit more staff and launch a new website.

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner at The Holiday Inn, Runcorn, on Friday, April 11.