A BUDE-BASED manufacturer of seats for airport waiting areas has been named Cornwall's Best Exporter at this year's Cornwall Business Awards.

Zoeftig received the coveted title in recognition of its domination of international airport seating markets, and important contribution to the Cornish economy.

Nick Blandford, of organiser the Cornwall Development Company, explained: "In Zoeftig, we have a truly world-class business right here in Cornwall. By strengthening their local roots at the same time as growing a powerful international presence, Zoeftig is really putting Cornwall on the global stage."

The presentation was witnessed by 300 of Cornwall's business and public leaders, who crowded into St Mellion International Hotel, Golf and Country Club to see the winners revealed and hear some well-chosen words of advice from straight-talking jewellery magnate Gerald Ratner.

Cornwall Development Company chairman Martin Brooks said: "The Cornwall Development Company is delighted by the way, year after year, businesses in the county rise to the occasion and we have been very impressed by the quality of entries this year, which set a new benchmark. The winners are all achieving spectacular success in their markets and we take our hats off to them."

Run by the Cornwall Development Company in conjunction with Business Link and the South West of England Regional Development Agency, the awards were judged by such high-profile figures as the Eden Project's Tim Smit and Virgin Atlantic CEO, Steve Ridgway.

Business Link chief executive Adam Chambers enthused: "Tonight has been an inspirational experience . It is sensational to see so many talented and ambitious businesses in Cornwall and such advances being made in important global markets such as energy efficiency."

Stephen Bohane, Head of Business Development at the South West of England Regional Development Agency, added: "The South West RDA invests in Cornwall to unlock business potential. It is really encouraging to see the businesses here tonight that are growing a forward looking, knowledge based economy in Cornwall."