The special TPA Gentleman’s Company of the Year 2022 award in this year’s 9th edition went to SHM (SUPER HARD MATERIALS). It operates in the industrial PVD coating market and applies a number of its own innovative patents. SHM is constantly searching for new and advanced technologies, for which it uses its own research team and cooperation with leading universities. It prides itself on a responsible approach to business in relation to its employees, business partners, the region and the sustainable development of the entire company. The prestigious award was presented by Jiří Hlaváč, Partner at TPA, at the CZECH TOP 100 gala dinner held on 22 June in the Spanish Hall of Prague Castle.
“Every year it is a real challenge for us to choose one winner from so many quality candidates. This is undoubtedly positive news for all of us. Out of the four finalists, we finally selected SHM as the winner. This is a highly innovative company that is at the forefront of the high-tech industry and is behind the entire development process from initial design, through production to final sale. When I visited the Šumperk site, I was immediately struck by the emphasis placed not only on modern equipment and ergonomics for the comfort of employees, but also on the environment. In addition to the facilities for sorted waste, including bio-waste or small electrical waste collection, they are now preparing a photovoltaic power plant project directly on the roof of the building. The company’s management also tries to make employees aware of environmental protection through various training courses. The company is also closely linked to the local community through cooperation with technical schools or involvement in charity events. At the same time, it is necessary to mention the truly humane and generous approach to refugees from Ukraine, for whom they have provided the necessary facilities and job placement,” said Rostislav Kuneš, TPA partner.
SHM has been active in the industrial PVD coating market since 1993. PVD coating is the surface treatment of mainly metal parts with a coating with a thickness of 1-10 micrometres and a hardness of 1000 to 4000 HV. In addition to the development of its own PVD technologies and patents, the company is continuously expanding its range of professional and customer services, to which it is continuously dedicated, raising their level in the spirit of the latest trends and innovations. It also focuses on other surface treatments that significantly enhance the function of PVD coatings. Since its inception, it has applied the principles of responsible business towards employees, customers, suppliers, the region and the whole company. The entire production process is continuously optimised with respect to the environment, especially in the areas of energy, water and packaging material consumption.
“We are delighted to have received this prestigious award. It is, of course, positive feedback that reassures us that we are moving in the right direction. Our business is about innovating to reduce the burden on the environment by extending the life of industrial tools. It is very important for us to conduct all production and business activities with respect for the environment, while creating the most pleasant conditions for our employees. Without satisfied employees who see real value in their work, we would not be where we are today,” said Petr Mrkos, SHM’s CEO, sharing his impressions.
The traditional Gentleman’s Company of the Year competition is an award for companies that, in their successful economic activities, honour the principles of ethics, social responsibility, support for the development of science and research, ecology and long-term business sustainability, as well as care for their own employees by supporting their cultural, sporting and educational activities. Many interesting projects are submitted every year. A total of 17 companies entered for this year’s edition. In addition to the winning SHM, s.r.o., the finalists included EcoGlass, a.s., MALFINI, a.s. and the family-owned company Originalní brambůrky.
