Polegate’s Agon Systems has been shortlisted for the British Small Business Award for ‘Exporter of the Year’ following a successful two years for their product ‘The Concept Tag’.
The nomination comes after device been picked up by retailers in over twenty countries including France, Spain, Turkey, Russia and Australia.
Since launch in late 2015 it has been installed by some of the biggest high-street names such as River Island, John Lewis, Matalan and JD Sports.
It’s reported successes with these companies has seen it installed in overseas outlets for existing UK customers as well as being picked up by foreign retailers such as LC Waikiki.
The Concept Tag, an innovative garment security tag that has been proven to reduce retail losses through theft by 66 per cent, spent seven years in development in conjunction with the company’s dedicated research department in Switzerland.
A unique locking mechanism requires over 50 kilograms of pressure to remove illicitly – a great deterrent to thieves who would likely cause damage to either the garment or themselves if attempted.
Agon Systems estimates it will ship its 15 millionth tag later this year from its base in Polegate, East Sussex.
The company has already appointed dedicated staff in Australia and is looking to do the same for North America, to take advantage of the growing popularity of the Concept Tag as an effective retail loss prevention tactic.
Sean Welch, Managing Director of Agon Systems, said: The Concept Tag is truly a revolutionary new product in an industry that had not seen a major change in tag design for over 20 years, and the whole team is delighted to be considered for this prestigious national award.”
“We’ve achieved a lot in a short space of time with a small team, and we’re looking forward to seeing just how far we can take the tag in the future!”
The British Small Business Award judges will select a winner next month, with the awards ceremony taking place at London’s Grand Connaught Rooms on Wednesday 1st November.