Leapfrog Public Relations Agency

Knowledge Transfer Partnership Awards March 2010

Alex Brown, Innovation Manager at Solo Cup Europe, has won a prestigious award from the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), a world-leading initiative which forges academic links with industry.

Alex was one of just five high calibre graduates named a ‘Business Leader of Tomorrow’ for his work with Solo Cup Europe, leading UK manufacturer of single use foodservice products.

“I’m thrilled that my work with Solo Cup Europe has been recognised in this way, at such an early stage of my career” commented Alex. “The Knowledge Transfer Partnership is a respected scheme which ensures that industry benefits from the very latest thinking and that academics are applying their thinking to the scenarios needed by industry – it’s a win-win situation! “

Alex’s Masters degree from Loughbrough University was in Sustainable Product Design – a particularly relevant subject for Solo as innovation, the environment and sustainability are the cornerstones of the company’s product development programme. “My role is to look at our product range and question why we do things in the way that we do and ask the ‘what if’ questions,” he added. “This enables us to think in different ways, look at products in a different light and really push the boundaries of creative thinking. Limiting our impact on the planet is the key driver for this thinking.”

Alex received his award from renowned businessman and entrepreneur Tim Waterstone, founder of Waterstone’s, the third largest bookseller in the world.

Anne Sutton, VP for the Environment and Innovation for Solo Cup Europe, said: “We are delighted that Alex’s talent and contribution have been recognized through this prestigious award. Right from the start Alex has brought a refreshing ‘can-do’ attitude to our business, which has resulted in a number of valuable innovations.

“He has tackled challenges in a mature and considered way and has engaged and inspired colleagues in order to find solutions and develop new ways of thinking,” she added. “Alex is certainly a real ‘Business Leader of Tomorrow.”