QualiChem named Small Business of the Year in Roanoke, Va.

(left to right) Buddy Hill (CFO), Glenn Frank (president), Dennis Butts (executive vice president), and Mike Forest (director of metalworking).

QualiChem, Salem, Va., an international manufacturer of metalworking fluids, has been recognized as the Small Business of the Year by the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Roanoke, Va.

The selection criteria for the award are increased sales, employee growth, staying power, innovation, and contributions to the community, according to the chamber. There were 11 business category awards given. QualiChem took the award in the manufacturing category and then went on to be the overall winner among the 91 companies nominated in the region.

QualiChem has achieved more than 60 percent revenue growth over the last five years. Three years ago the firm expanded its headquarters, lab, and manufacturing facility, increasing its square footage by 70 percent and adding a 45-seat training and conference center. The company has close working relationships with area high schools and universities to recruit and train students who have an interest in chemistry or manufacturing for internships and full-time employment.