Ed Potter, the founder of Cambridge-based high-tech co-op Delta-T Devices, is celebrating receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to the co-operative movement. He was presented with the prize as part of the annual Co-op of the Year Awards after being nominated and then handpicked by a judging panel.
Ed founded Delta-T Devices in 1971 and converted it to a co-op in 1981 so all its members could share in its running. The company develops new technologies for use in environmental science. Its reputation for high quality has seen its sensors used in environments as challenging as an orbiting space station – where they helped astronauts to successfully grow lettuce plants.
Ed said, “I’m thrilled to receive this award. I’ve always been a passionate believer in co-operative principles. And it’s thanks to our co-operative way of working at Delta-T that we’ve gone from strength to strength over the years. Everyone on the team owns and manages the company. We all share the same level of commitment and enthusiasm – and that translates into a professional, harmonious environment that enables us to innovate and continually delight our customers.”
A frequent speaker at Co-operatives UK events, Ed is an advocate for sharing knowledge and experience between co-operatives. Within his own co-op, he plays an active role in mentoring new members.
Rose Marley, CEO of Co-operatives UK said, “Huge congratulations to Ed on his well-deserved award. He is an inspiration to entrepreneurs and co-ops throughout the UK and internationally. Working co-operatively, Delta-T has achieved an enviable reputation and great success nationally and globally. Through his nomination we heard how Ed’s belief in fairness and equality underpins the company’s ethos. And his enthusiasm and commitment to the co-op movement continues to inspire people throughout the co-operative community.”
Sales and Marketing Director at Delta-T, David Frew, said, “Edmund has been an inspirational presence at Delta-T since he founded the company 50 years ago. His vision for an ethical, people-focussed tech business and democratic decision making has never wavered. Ed continues to contribute his expertise and passion to the daily running of Delta-T, and we all hope that continues for many years to come.”
The Co-op of the Year Awards 2021 are organised by Co-operatives UK – the network for Britain’s thousands of co-operative businesses – and sponsored by The Co-operative Bank.
See brief video of Ed accepting the award.
