Industry Lifetime Achievement Award for Chris Towne

Chris Towne, Chairman of Towne Group, UK’s leading experts in lifting and overhead crane solutions, has been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the LEEA 2025 Awards.

Towne’s recognition comes at a significant moment in his long-standing relationship with LEEA. Having joined the Association’s Board in 2005, he recently stepped down in November 2025 after two decades of service.

During this period, he held several key leadership positions, including Vice Chairman in 2007, Chairman in 2009, and Chairman of Learning and Development from 2020 to 2025, helping shape the direction of the organisation and the wider lifting industry.

Commenting on the award, Chris Towne said: “I am truly honoured to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from LEEA. It has been a privilege to contribute to the lifting industry over the years, and I am grateful to all colleagues and peers who have supported and worked with me during these years.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates Towne’s exceptional commitment, influence, and leadership throughout his career while leaving a lasting impact on the lifting industry across the UK and the globe.

Towne’s Lifting and Testing Crane of the Future range was also shortlisted for excellence in Product Innovation Award Category recognising the innovative and smart technology for overhead crane and machinery management that reduces breakdown, guarantees health and safety compliance, and minimises repair and maintenance costs.