STRI, the world’s leading sports turf consultancy, has scooped the Outstanding International Business Award (SME) prize for their pitch construction work in Ukraine at the British Expertise International Awards 2012/13.

HRH The Duke of Gloucester, President – British Expertise,
Mike Blackburn, Chairman –British Expertise & Group Manager – Mott MacDonald (sponsor of award),
Andy Cole, Head of Consultancy – STRI, Gordon McKillop, CEO – STRI,
Carolyn Beadsmoore, Head of Sales & Marketing – STRI, Edward Stourton, Presenter – BBC Radio Four

Crowned overall winner in the Outstanding International Business Award category, STRI was recognised for their pitch improvement installation at four stadiums in Ukraine in the lead up to EURO 2012.

The accolade is specifically in recognition of the largest development project undertaken in Kharkiv where STRI overcame a number of operational problems including customs delays and severe weather.
An innovative pitch ventilation and vacuum system developed by STRI, (ISASS: In Situ Air Sparging System) was utilised in order to undertake the installation of a world class playing surface within a five week period. A legacy framework programme for the ongoing maintenance was also successfully implemented.

STRI, who are the official pitch consultants for FIFA and UEFA, designed and managed the project at the 39,000 capacity FC Metalist stadium in conjunction with Clive Richardson Limited, Engo Limited, and Desso Limited.
Held annually to recognise and celebrate outstanding international achievements by companies in the UK professional services sector, The Outstanding International Business Award (SME) accolade was received by STRI at a celebration dinner at The Cumberland Hotel, London.

The British Expertise International Awards were attended by a number of distinguished guests including HRH The Duke of Gloucester and Lord Marland, the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy who delivered a keynote address at the event.

Gordon McKillop, STRI’s Chief Executive said: “It’s fantastic news for STRI to receive this acknowledgement amongst an array of distinguished organisations making a notable impact in export markets. And we’re delighted to receive recognition for the work we’ve undertaken in Ukraine, particularly Kharkiv.

“A number of challenges were overcome to deliver a first class pitch in a country widely regarded as one of the most difficult to work in. This accolade is testament to the hard work and dedication of our team of turf professionals as well as the team work of the consortium of organisations involved. This award will further enhance our reputation in the turf management industry for delivering world class playing surfaces both domestically and around the world.”