They’re the best at what they do and that’s a fact

An Ashford- based market research agency has celebrated 30 years of success with a top industry award

Facts International’s telecommunications centre on the town’s Henwood industrial estate has picked up the highest commendation at the Market Research Society’s (MRS) operations awards 2015.

The company was presented with the Best Data Collection award in the Computer Assisted Telephone Interview category, at a ceremony held in London.

The judges were unanimous in their decision, praising the company’s “innovative in-house technical solution” so that its interviewers are able to gather more relevant information.

The centre was established in 1985 and employs more than 1,000 interviewers from across the area, from young people from local schools to seasoned specialists, some of whom have been with Facts International for 20 years or more.

Telephone operations director Kerry Ovenden said: “We are delighted that our interviewing team has been given the reward they so richly deserve. We have worked incredibly hard over the last 30 years to build a reputation for efficient, innovative work on an international scale and that would not have been possible without the professional skills that are available across Kent.”

Managing director Emily Kettle added: “I couldn’t be more proud of everyone involved in the operation of the telephone centre.

“It is our flagship service, employing local people who work tirelessly and professionally as brand ambassadors for our clients.

“I personally started my career as an interviewer in the telephone centre, so I am especially thrilled with this win.”

For more information visit http://www.facts.uk.com

The Facts team are presented with their award, from left, Adam Wyles, Facts field operations director, Kerry Ovenden, Facts telephone operations director, Chris Smith, judge and managing director of Kudos Research, and Emily Kettle, Facts managing...