by Trevor Sturgess

The Queen has granted a double honour to a hi-tech firm that gives people early diagnosis of cancer, pregnancy and other medical conditions.

SCIPAC, based in Broad Oak Road, Sittingbourne, has won the Queen's Award for Enterprise for outstanding performance in two categories - innovation and international trade. The royal seal of approval is one of the UK's most prestigious business accolades.

Stephane Argivier managing director, said: "We are extremely honoured to receive the Queen's Award for Enterprise in two different categories as tangible recognition of the company's achievements. It is also a great salute to our Kent workforce who have contributed to our success and this award, as well as demonstrating how this county can foster great businesses."

The biotechnical company was founded in Kent in 1985 by Dr Clive Dawes and Tony Raeside. It makes the critical protein markers that go into kits and test blood for indications of some 300 medical conditions. The tests provide vital prognosis and a course of treatment.

One example is the home pregnancy test that gives an instant read-out at the earliest stages of pregnancy. Another is a test to enable diabetics to have better control over their disease. The diagnostic tests are also used to identify illnesses such as cancer, cardiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

The company has bucked the downturn with improving productivity and sales smashing throught the £5 million barrier. The firm has boosted market share by an average of 23 per cent a year for the past three years.

Export sales doubled to around 90 per cent of turnover between 2006 and 2009, with SCIPAC's 350 products - most made in the Kent laboratories - now going to more than 30 countries. Its top markets are the United States, France, Germany, the Irish Republic, Belgium and Japan.

The firm will be formally honoured at a royal reception in Buckingham Palace in July, followed by a visit from the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, or a deputy, at a ceremony later in the year when a crystal bowl will be presented.

Winners are permitted to fly a flag showing the Queen's Award emblem, and display it on stationery, products and packaging.