For the second time in as many years, BioTek Instruments, Inc., has been selected as one of three finalists for the annual Deane C. Davis Outstanding Business of the Year Award. The award is named for former Vermont Governor Deane C. Davis, who was a strong advocate of a sound economy based on environmental stewardship. Vermont Business Magazine and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce created and govern the annual award. The award honors a Vermont company demonstrating the highest excellence in economic growth, desirable work environment for employees and monetary and non-monetary contributions to the Vermont community. BioTek excels at each of these criteria through the following:

Continued growth in number of employees and/or sales

BioTek continues to outpace the overall laboratory instrumentation and general manufacturing market, with 2009 revenue increasing 13% over 2008 revenue. As a privately held company, BioTek is able to focus on long-term goals, and reinvest profits in R&D, Marketing, Sales and Service activities. Reinvestments include a multi-lingual web site launch, extensive social media programs, and an 8,000 square foot applications lab and manufacturing expansion at the Winooski facility. These investments allow the company to reach new audiences, support their growing customer base, and enhance the BioTek brand. Additionally, BioTek’s workforce has grown by 52% in the past five years, with average employee tenure of 10 or more years. The company plans for continued sales and staff growth with an emphasis on increasing visibility of their scientific expertise and international expansion.

Commitment of company resources, including employees to community projects

BioTek supports the efforts of several charity organizations and nonprofits, and encourages employees’ involvement. Employees are rewarded for their charitable donations, and are also able to use company time for volunteer activities. Community projects include the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival, “A Time to Give” fundraiser to benefit the Connor B. Turnbaugh Foundation, Haiti disaster relief and “Everybody Wins! Vermont” children’s literacy and mentoring organization.

Recognition of the environment as a natural and economic resource for Vermont

BioTek’s Green Team continues to lead the company in safeguarding and improving Vermont’s precious environment. Notable progress is already made in energy efficient lighting, electronics and temperature control systems; manufacturing and office material reductions and recycling; organic repurposing and alternate transportation modes. Company-wide efforts were impactful; culminating in the 2009 Waste Reduction Award presented by the Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD), and continue today. BioTek encourages their international offices and partners to think and act in the same responsible manner.

Creation of a positive work environment for all employees

BioTek’s organizational goals and values reinforce integrity, trust, teamwork and excellence, which are seen at every level of the company. Additionally, by proactively soliciting honest employee feedback, they can find ways to work more efficiently. Excellent benefits, personal development and a family atmosphere contribute to making BioTek a great place to work. In fact, based on anonymous employee engagement and satisfaction surveys, BioTek received the 2009 Best Place to Work in Vermont Award – Large Company from Vermont Business Magazine.

The 2010 Deane C. Davis Outstanding Vermont Business Award will be presented on May 26, 2010 at the Vermont Chamber Business & Industry Expo at the Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center in Burlington, Vermont.

Source: BioTek Instruments