Martin shortlisted for Lifetime Achievement Award

Posted on: Thursday, August 7th, 2025

Arden Group Managing Director Martin Poynter has been named as a finalist for a prestigious accolade – the National Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award 2025.

The award, organised by Family Business United, celebrates individuals who have dedicated their lives to driving success and growth within family-owned businesses.

Martin is part of the founding family of the Arden Group, which was originally launched as a die-making operation by brothers Frank and Philip Poynter from the cellar of their family home in Stockport.

Arden Dies – the first of the Arden Group of companies – was officially established in 1965, with Martin, son of Frank Poynter, joining the business in 1978 following the sudden death of his uncle Philip.

With a strong engineering background and a forward-looking vision, Martin entered the company after completing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Under his leadership, Arden has evolved from a traditional die-making workshop into a major player in the packaging industry around the world.

He spearheaded the launch of Arden Software in 1988 and Arden Engraving in 1998, diversifying the business and cementing our reputation as an innovator. He has overseen major international growth, opening offices in the USA, Denmark, Germany, India, Poland and Mexico.

This year marks a special milestone for the Arden Group – our Diamond anniversary, celebrating 60 years of success. Martin, now aged 68, remains at the helm, driving innovation and growth while staying true to the family values on which the company was built.

He said: “I’m truly honoured and humbled to be recognised in this way. Arden has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it’s a privilege to continue the legacy started by my father and uncle 60 years ago.

“To be shortlisted for this Lifetime Achievement Award during such a special anniversary year for our family business makes it especially poignant. I’ve been lucky to work with such an incredible team whose passion and commitment have helped shape Arden’s journey, and this recognition is as much for them as it is for me.”

Today, the Arden Group employs more than 260 people worldwide and is a leading name in the packaging sector.

Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, added: “Our finalists are both family and non-family members who have dedicated significant amounts of their working lives contributing to the success and growth of the family business that they are associated with.

“Running a family business can be a lonely place and we created these awards to recognise the incredible contribution that is made by individuals within these firms.”

The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 17 September, as part of the National Family Business Day celebrations. Find out more.